Tag: #NorwalkOysterFestival

Celebrate the End of Summer in Style at the 47th Norwalk Oyster Festival

Make the most of summer’s last hurrah at the Norwalk Oyster Festival, taking place September 5–7 at Veterans Park (42 Seaview Ave., Norwalk). Hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association and presented by Mohegan Sun Online Casino, this vibrant festival is more than just a celebration—it’s the largest annual fundraiser supporting the preservation and restoration of the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a true Connecticut maritime icon. With tickets available online and at the gate, this festival offers exceptional value, especially with all entertainment included in the price of admission and free entry for children 12 and under on Sunday with a paying adult, sponsored by Nuvance Health-GoHealth Urgent Care, making it one of the most family-friendly events around.

Norwalk Oyster Festival, Chairman Mike Reilly says it best: “This year’s entertainment lineup is the best value around. We’re bringing arena-sized bands to the Oyster Festival in addition to nationally acclaimed family entertainment, all included with admission to the festival. “It’s a tradition that we’re proud of,” adds Reilly, “and the last big event of the summer at a beautiful seaside venue.”

A Star-Studded Music Lineup
This year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival is turning up the volume with an unforgettable lineup that’s sure to have you dancing all weekend long! From national recording artists on the Optimum Main Stage to regional favorites under the Abbey Tent, music takes center stage. Music lovers are in for a treat with this year’s impressive entertainment line-up. Country sensation, Parmalee, the most-played group on Country Radio in 2022 and 2023, will headline Saturday night. Their high-energy performance will feature fan favorites like “Carolina,” “Close Your Eyes,” and their latest single “Cowgirl.” The musical excitement kicks off Friday with Nashville and Margaritaville night – Rock Country Nights, will open for Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band, the ultimate tribute band to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band. Sunday wraps up with VOYAGE: Celebrating the Music of Journey, performing fan favorites like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms.”



Introducing the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Lounge
This year, the Mohegan Sun Online Casino is unveiling its exclusive VIP Lounge — a luxurious, casino-inspired escape right in the heart of the festival. For just $50 per day, guests aged 21+ will get admission to the festival, all-day access to plush seating, three complimentary adult beverages, and a selection of tasty bites. But the VIP perks don’t stop there. Lounge guests will also be treated to exclusive giveaways and premium swag. One-day passes are available for September 5, 6, and 7, so grab yours online or at the gate. As Colin Mulhern, Event Manager for Mohegan Sun Online Casino, puts it: “Mohegan Sun Online Casino is proud and excited to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Norwalk Oyster Festival 2025! Our partnership with the festival and the Norwalk Seaport Association continues to be an amazing relationship for our business and our presence in the community. This year, we are looking forward to providing attendees with an incredible experience underneath the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Tent that will bring world-class Mohegan Sun hospitality right to Norwalk residents’ backyards!”

Unforgettable Family Fun: Lumberjacks & Leaping Dogs!
The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is packed with laughter, action, and jaw-dropping feats that bring the world of logging to life. Watch as burly World Class and World Champion Lumberjacks go head-to-head in epic battles of muscle vs. machine, showcasing skills like logrolling, axe throwing, and springboard chopping. From the razor-sharp Misery Whip crosscut saw to dragster-speed chainsaws, this high-energy show blends tradition with modern-day excitement—and it’s been wowing audiences across the globe for over 33 years!

The Ready Go Dog Show takes entertainment to new heights—literally! Featuring a cast of rescued canine athletes, this high-flying, tail-wagging performance combines comedy, talent, and heart in one unforgettable package. Watch Frisbee-catching, high-jumping, water-diving dogs steal the show with their amazing stunts and boundless energy. These pups do it all with passion, and after the show, you can even meet the stars during a special “meet n’ greet”. As seen on FOX, ESPN, and The Today Show, the Ready Go Dog Show is paws-down one of the most exciting family-friendly events around!

Savor Global Flavors & Shop Local Artistry
Food lovers, get ready for a culinary journey around the world—without ever leaving town. Indulge in a vibrant menu that spans continents, alongside classic New England seafood favorites, including buttery lobster rolls, creamy clam chowder, and freshly shucked oysters delivered right off the boat. If you love to shop and explore one-of-a-kind finds, don’t miss the Arts and Crafts area, where talented artists and crafters showcase everything from whimsical trinkets to practical pieces. Whether you’re on the hunt for handmade jewelry, eye-catching paintings, stunning pottery, or wearable art, there’s something here to match every style and budget.

Festival Essentials
Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 5-12. Children 12 and under are Free with an adult paid ticket on Sunday, sponsored by Nuvance Health GoHealth Urgent Care, and children under 5 are free every day. Festival hours are Friday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wristband specials with unlimited rides for Saturday & Sunday (11a-3p) are available for only $35! Tickets for the festival and the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Tent are available online and at the gate. Click here for ticket information. For detailed parking shuttle information, visit https://www.seaport.org/norwalk-oyster-festival

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival
Now in its 47th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for music, a wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village

About Mohegan Sun Online Casino
Mohegan Sun Online Casino is Connecticut’s premier online casino app with an array of online slots, table games, and live dealer games. Download the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app today to receive exclusive promotions, rewards, and game offerings. Also, link your Mohegan Sun Momentum Card to the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app to earn Momentum Dollars and Status Points from anywhere in the state of Connecticut. https://ct.mohegansuncasino.com/

JanetLeave a comment

Parmalee, Voyage, Jimmy Kenny & More at the 47th Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Norwalk Seaport Association has just released the headliners for the 47th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival, taking place Friday, September 5 through Sunday, September 7. Headlining this year’s festival is Parmalee, named the most-played group on Country Radio in both 2022 and 2023. With five #1 singles, multiple platinum records, and over a billion on-demand streams, Parmalee is bringing their Carolina swagger and chart-topping hits to the Optimum Main Stage on Saturday night, September 6.

Parmalee brings their southern swagger to Norwalk Oyster Festival Sept. 5-

Comprised of brothers Matt and Scott Thomas, cousin Barry Knox, and lifelong friend Josh McSwain, Parmalee continues to redefine what country music can be—infusing their sound with a variety of influences that set them apart in the genre. When they hit the Optimum Main Stage, expect nothing less than a toe tapping, hit-packed set featuring fan-favorite anthems like “Close Your Eyes,” “Carolina,” “Already Callin’ You Mine,” “Musta Had a Good Time,” “Girl in Mine,” and their latest release, “Cowgirl,” from the April, 2025 album Fell in Love with a Cowgirl. With a commanding stage presence, Parmalee doesn’t just perform. They have fun onstage while connecting with fans. As Matt Thomas says, “We just hope people can sing along, smile and ride the roller coaster of emotions with us.”

Norwalk Oyster Festival, Chairman Mike Reilly says it best: “This year’s entertainment lineup is the best value around. We’re bringing arena-sized bands to the Oyster Festival—all included with admission to the festival of just $15. “It’s a tradition that we’re proud of,” adds Reilly, “and the last big event of the summer at a beautiful seaside venue.”

“Mohegan Sun Online Casino is proud and excited to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Norwalk Oyster Festival 2025! Our partnership with the festival and the Norwalk Seaport Association continues to be an amazing relationship for our business and our presence in the community. This year, we are looking forward to providing attendees with an incredible experience underneath the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Tent that will bring world-class Mohegan Sun hospitality right to Norwalk resident’s backyards,” said Colin Mulhern, Event Manager, Mohegan Sun Online Casino.

It’s 5 ‘clock somewhere with the Jimmy Kenny Band at the Norwalk Oyster Festival

The music doesn’t stop there! Friday night kicks off with Rock Country Nights, delivering a high-energy hit list from country, rock, and southern legends. And at 8:30 p.m., the crowd will be whisked away to paradise with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band, the ultimate tribute band to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band.

Capping off the weekend on Sunday at 4 p.m., VOYAGE: Celebrating the Music of Journey will take over the Optimum Main Stage. Known for their spot-on recreations of Journey’s iconic sound, VOYAGE delivers a powerhouse performance of classic hits like “Faithfully,” and “Separate Ways.” With pitch-perfect vocals, blistering guitar solos, and all the stadium rock vibes folks love, VOYAGE will have fans singing along to classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms.” Their electrifying stage presence and attention to detail make them the world’s premier Journey tribute band.

With Mohegan Sun Online Casino as the Presenting Sponsor and Optimum powering the Main Stage, this year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever—a three-day celebration of music, family entertainment, rides, arts and crafts, food, and unforgettable memories by the sea. *For further information and tickets visit seaport.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

Take a journey with VOYAGE

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Now in its 47th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for music, wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village.

About Mohegan Sun Online Casino

Mohegan Sun Online Casino is Connecticut’s premier online casino app with an array of online slots, table games, and live dealer games. Download the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app today to receive exclusive promotions, rewards, and game offerings. Also, link your Mohegan Sun Momentum Card to the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app to earn Momentum Dollars and Status Points from anywhere in the state of Connecticut. https://ct.mohegansuncasino.com/

JanetLeave a comment

Three Days of Fun! Norwalk Oyster Festival September 6, 7, 8

The last great event of the summer is taking place at Norwalk’s Veteran’s Park on September 6, 7, and 8 with tickets on sale at seaport.org and at the gate. This festival is the Seaport Association’s largest fundraiser that helps with its mission of education, preservation, and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s maritime icon. One of the most unique things about the Norwalk Oyster Festival is that all the entertainment is included with the price of a ticket, and all kids, 12 and under get in free on Sunday with a paying adult, making this one of the most family-friendly events around.

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This year’s stellar entertainment line-up on the Optimum Main Stage will please all age groups. Friday night kicks off with the exuberant performance of Funky Dawgs at 7 p.m. and is followed by the high-energy performance Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes at 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, Badboy takes the stage at 1 p.m. and is followed by JD Leonard known for his modern country vibe that keeps fans mesmerized. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is excited to welcome back Mike DelGuidice who will be performing at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday. DelGuidice has been wowing audiences around the world with his powerful vocals, showcasing his talent, eclectic songwriting, friendly, and engaging stage presence, and has built a national following as a full-time touring member of Billy Joel’s Band. On Sunday, Connecticut’s own Drew Angus will be performing with his band at 2:00. This year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is ending with “feel good energy” when Let’s Sing Taylor gets all the “Swifties” in the crowd up dancing and singing along with what has been hailed nationwide as the ultimate Taylor Swift tribute band.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there. New acts this year include the Ready Go Dog Show featuring high-flying canine athletes. The second new act is the XPOGO Show composed of the most talented and experienced extreme POGO champion pro athletes who have performed in 26 countries and on America’s Got Talent. There is plenty of family fun, especially in Kids Cove where unlimited ride wristbands are offered for $35 on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For shoppers and treasure hunters, the New England Crafts Village offers the work of 80+ vendors that offer items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. And, for foodies, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a gastronomic extravaganza. Foodies rejoice at the fest’s unique offerings from Mexico, Columbia, Greece, Jamaica, and Italy. Not to be forgotten are the “gifts of the sea,” that New Englanders have celebrated for a good long time – lobsters, clam chowda, and oysters, of course!

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $8 for kids 5-12 (free on Sunday with a paying adult). On Friday the festival hours are 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are available online at seaport.org and at the gate. Shuttles are available from Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach. For detailed information seaport.org.

About First County Bank
First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, CT for over 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 13 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $2 billion and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces award 2020-2023. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse; its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org

JanetLeave a comment

The Amistad Comes to the Norwalk Oyster Festival Sept. 8,9,10

In addition to three family fun-filled days of entertainment at the Norwalk Oyster Festival like the WOW Water Circus and Canines in the Clouds, food, arts and crafts, and riveting performances by Gary LeVox, lead singer of Rascal Flatts, Mullett the nation’s best 80s band, and John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band, the historic Amistad will be docked in Norwalk Harbor adjacent to Veterans Park where the festival is taking place. All ticketed festgoers are invited to tour this amazing vessel for free at this year’s Oyster Festival. The enslaved African captives aboard the Amistad initiated the most famous slave ship rebellion in American history.

Illegally Sold into Slavery

The story of the Amistad and Connecticut are historically entwined in an extraordinary way. It all began in February 1839, when Portuguese slave hunters abducted hundreds of Africans from Mendeland, in present-day Sierra Leone, and transported them to Cuba, then a Spanish colony. At that time, the importation of enslaved people and the transatlantic slave trade were illegal in the United States and in Great Britain. Unfortunately, Havana, Cuba remained an important trading hub supplying plantations in the Caribbean with enslaved people.

When the slave ship, the Tecora reached Cuba, two plantation owners, Pedro Montes and Jose Ruiz purchased 53 of the transported Africans as enslaved workers. Soon after their purchase, they set sail on the Amistad, for their plantation in Puerto Rico. Ironically, the name of the vessel, Amistad means “Friendship.”

Color Engraving and Frontispiece from John Warner Barber (1840). A History of the Amistad Captives. New Haven, Connecticut: E.L. and J.W. Barber, Hitchcock & Stafford, Printers.

Uprising at Sea

A few days into the journey Joseph Cinque, one of the enslaved Africans managed to get out of the shackles and helped other captives to get out of theirs. Armed with knives, they seized control of the Amistad, killing the captain and the cook.

After seizing control, they ordered Montes and Ruiz to turn the ship back to Africa. Secretly, at night, Montes and Ruiz changed the course of the vessel, in hopes of being rescued, and sailed it through the Caribbean and up the eastern coast of the United States.

The Amistad docked in Long Island to get provisions and was spotted by the U.S. brig Washington on August 26, 1839. The Amistad was seized by the Naval Officers on the Washington and the enslaved were put back in chains and brought to Connecticut, which was still a slave state at that time. The naval officers claimed salvage rights to the ship and its enslaved cargo.

Contemporary painting of the sailing vessel La Amistad off Culloden Point, Long Island, New York, on 26 August 1839; on the left the USS Washington of the US Navy

Battle in Court

Cinque and other Africans who helped him with the revolt on the Amistad were imprisoned in New Haven and charged with murder and piracy. With the help of influential abolitionists, the charges were dropped. However, a legal battle ensued regarding the legal status of the enslaved captives and property claims between the naval officers of the boat, the Washington, the Spanish government, and Montes and Ruiz.

The President of the United States at the time, Martin Van Buren wanted to extradite the Africans to Cuba to pacify Spain. The defense team for the Africans enlisted a professor who studied languages from Yale University to determine what language the Africans spoke so that they could tell their story. On the waterfront of New York, they found a man who spoke their language and brought him to court to interpret their story for the first time.

In January 1840, a judge in Hartford, Connecticut, in defiance of President Van Buren, who thought the court would rule in his favor, ruled that the Africans were not Spanish enslaved peoples, but rather, that they were illegally captured and should be returned to Africa, not to Cuba. This decision was appealed and eventually was heard in the Supreme Court. The defense team enlisted the help of former President, John Quincy Adams who had successfully argued cases before the Supreme Court and had a strong anti-slavery voice in Congress. Adams argued that these enslaved Africans had the right to fight for their freedom aboard the Amistad, in accordance with the Declaration of Independence, and accused Van Buren of abusing his executive power.

Sketch of an Amistad prisoner, drawn as they awaited trial in New Haven.

The Outcome

On March 9, 1841, the Supreme Court ruled 7 to 1 that the enslaved Africans did have the right to fight for their freedom aboard the Amistad, and that the court deemed them to be free. However, the U.S. government did not allocate funds to repatriate the Africans to their homeland and, awarded salvage rights to the naval officers on the Washington, not to the Spanish or the Africans.

Many abolitionists supported these freed Africans and raised sufficient funds to pay for their return trip to their homeland in Africa. Although some of the Africans died at sea and others died in prison awaiting trial, in November of 1841, 43 surviving Africans boarded the vessel called The Gentleman along with five Christian missionaries in New York and headed for home. Upon reaching their homeland all but four children returned to their families and vanished from historical records.

For tickets to the Norwalk Oyster Festival http://www.seaport.org

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Come Join the Fun @ the 45th Norwalk Oyster Festival Fri., Sept. 08, Sat., Sept. 09, and Sun. Sept. 10 @ Veterans Park, Norwalk

The 45th Norwalk Oyster Festival presented by First County Bank on September 8-10 at Veteran’s Park in Norwalk is all about bringing together world-class entertainers, family fun, and moments that you just can’t miss. Two stages, one sponsored by Ford and another sponsored by Abbey Tents, local eats and drinks, shopping, arts and crafts, and an expanded children’s area that includes the chance to tour the historic Amistad with paid admission to the festival is what this three-day festival is all about.

“We like to think that the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the region’s “official end of summer,” celebration, and this year we are going all out. Festgoers will enjoy unparalleled live music by nationally known performers, like Gary LeVox, lead singer of Rascal Flatts, and John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band that have enthralled audiences nationwide. All shows and performances are free with the price of admission,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Seaport Association and Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. “To make it even more affordable for families, on Sunday, September 10, kids 12 and under get into the Festival free with a paid adult, plus there are discounted ride wristbands available on Saturday and Sunday. We appreciate the generosity of our sponsors and the thousands of volunteers who make this event possible. For 16 years First County Bank has supported us, helping to make the Norwalk Oyster Festival a longtime Fairfield County tradition that people from near and far look forward to year after year,” Reilly concluded.

For the Whole Family
There are so many free shows taking place throughout the day at various locations that are perfect for the entire family, and best of all, they are included with the price of the ticket. These shows take place throughout the day at various times so festgoers never miss a performance, or can see their favorite act as many times as they like!

New this year is the WOW Water Circus that will take festival guests on a fanciful and whimsical journey above and below the water as performers take a deep dive for adventure and fun under the high seas! See intrepid aerialists perform daring feats, cheer on castaway pirate clowns, and watch mermaids as they tumble with the surf exploring the vast beauty of the ocean. Among the many daring feats of this aquatic spectacular is the daring high-speed Jet Ski aerial act that is as unique as it is thrilling.

If you are an animal lover, you won’t want to miss the new show, Canines in the Clouds. Part of this show’s charm is the heartwarming story about the journey of these talented canines from shelter to stardom, and their new life of pampering and excitement. This diverse cast of canine athletes performs high-energy gravity-defying stunts that are unique to this show and sure to dazzle you.

Another new opportunity with paid admission to the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a free tour of the 129-foot Amistad Schooner that will be docked at Veterans Park. This fascinating tour highlights the story of the Amistad beginning in Africa, and the rebellion on board, the impact of its legacy, and its relevance to Connecticut’s history.

If you are a fan of Renaissance Fairs don’t miss your chance to see a medieval fighting troupe that specializes in scripted and unscripted demonstrations. Step back in time and experience the magic as you watch knights in armor sparring, and, afterward, explore a mini Medieval Village. This experience is perfect for fair maidens on a quest and brave knights looking for action! Don’t miss the chance to learn about elves and fairies, kings and queens, and life in the 16th century.

And, don’t forget to explore our midway, there is always something around the next corner that amazes and delights.

Music on the Built Ford Proud Stage

This year, the “Built Ford Proud Main Stage” offers a diverse line-up of some of the biggest names around. These performances are always hotly anticipated and a highlight of the festival. So, get ready to party 1980s style on Friday, September 8, with Mullett on at 8:30 p.m. Mullett is known nationwide as one of the most authentic 80s tribute bands in the nation. Pimpinella, opens for Mullett and will get the party started at 7 p.m. with their special blend of timeless 70s classic rock hits, Funk, Disco, Soul, and R&B.

On Saturday, September 9, Gary LeVox, lead singer of the iconic country group, Rascal Flatts, takes the Build Ford Proud Stage at 8 p.m. Founded in 2000 Rascal Flatts scored 17 No. 1 hits, sold more than 23 million albums, and won 40+ award-show trophies, making them the most awarded country group of the last decade. LeVox is known for having one of country music’s most distinctive voices that is a pure joy to listen to. He will be performing the chart toppers and well-known hits of Rascal Flatts as well as some of his new music. Singer/songwriter, J.D. Leonard from Nashville is opening for LeVox on Saturday at 6 p.m. He’s written singles for the likes of Bonnie Tyler and placed a number of his songs in over a dozen films.

Sunday’s musical extravaganza begins @ 3 p.m. with BadBoy, which will get the crowd energized with their rock and country hits. The final concert of the 45th annual Oyster Festival ends on a high note at 5 p.m. with the legendary East Coast Rock ‘n’ Roll group, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band. The band is well known for their performance “On the Dark Side,” from the motion picture Eddie and the Cruisers, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. This band puts on a fantastic show that is sure to get people up and dancing, which is the perfect way to end the 45th annual Oyster Festival.

Music @ the Entertainment Tent
One of the highlights of the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the music performed on multiple stages throughout this three-day event. The Entertainment Tent sponsored by Abbey Tent has live non-stop music all weekend long performed by some of your favorite regional bands. This area is a musical celebration of rock, jazz, hip-hop, Latin, and countless other genres. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax or surrender to the beats and riffs, the Entertainment Tent is not to be missed.

For the Foodies
If you come to the Norwalk Oyster Festival for the music, you will stay for the food! Foodies rejoice at the fest’s unique offerings from Mexico, Columbia, Greece, Jamaica, and Italy to good old New England lobsters, and oysters, of course! Whether you are craving a salty or savory meal, a sugary treat to satisfy your sweet tooth or an afternoon or evening snack, you’ll find it here. And, if you work up a thirst there are plenty of choices from soft and exotic fruit drinks, to our popular craft beer tent offering more than forty beers.

Arts and Crafts Galore

If you like to shop, head to the Arts and Crafts area where 80+ fine artists and crafters display whimsical as well as practical items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. Jewelry, paintings, pottery, sculpture, clothing, home décor, and wearable art are just some of the treasures to be found. At the Seaport Tent, learn about Norwalk’s oyster history, and Sheffield Island Lighthouse, and browse specialty items celebrating the island and lighthouse.

Where – The Norwalk Oyster Festival is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT.

Admission– Adults $15, Seniors (65+) – $10, Children 6 – 12 – $5 (Free on Sunday with paid adult), and Children under 5 are free. To avoid the wait, tickets can be purchased online at http://www.seaport.org.

Ride Wrist Bands– Discounted ride wristbands are available Saturday and Sunday for $30 for unlimited rides.

Hours– Friday, Sept. 8, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 10 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Parking & Shuttles

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at these locations:

9/8 – Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach 5:30– 11:30 p.m.

9/9 – Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

9/10 – Norwalk Community College and Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall – 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Fee Parking

Webster and Haviland Street parking lot, and the Maritime and Iron Works Garages. All are within walking distance of the festival.

About First County Bank
First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, CT for over 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 14 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $2.0 billion, and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces 2020-2022 award. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse; its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org or call (203) 838-9444.

JanetLeave a comment

Experience the Excitement @ the 45th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival – September 8-10

This year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival organizers have planned a number of new and exciting events that will provide an experience like no other on Friday, September 8, Saturday, September 9, and Sunday, September 10 at the 35-acre Veterans Memorial Park in Norwalk. Tickets are on sale now online at seaport.org and will be available at the gate during the event.

Music and entertainment make people happy with the added benefit of making memories that last a lifetime. And, making folks happy is what this festival is all about. “The Norwalk Oyster Festival, now in its 45th year is the last big event that takes place before the end of the summer. It’s a great family-fun event that won’t break the bank because all the entertainment is included with the price of the ticket! To make it more affordable for families we offer discounted ride wristbands on Saturday and Sunday, and best of all, kids under 12 get in free on Sunday…it’s our way of giving back to all our supporters, said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Seaport Association and Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. “The Festival is very important to the Seaport Association because it is our major fundraiser for Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s Maritime Icon,” Reilly said. “We couldn’t put this festival together without the support of our many sponsors including our Presenting Sponsor, First County Bank and Ford, for our “Built Ford Proud Stage,” Reilly concluded. For tickets click here

Entertainment Line-Up Built Ford Proud Stage
Attending the Norwalk Oyster Festival is a lot more than music – it’s the atmosphere, the culture, and the people all experiencing something live that you can’t stream! It’s a way to spend time with friends and loved ones, enjoy delicious food, shop, and see world-class entertainment as well as both world-famous and emerging musicians.

Get ready to party 1980s style on Friday, September 8, with Mullett on the Built Ford Proud Stage at 8:30 p.m. Mullett is known nationwide as one of the most authentic tribute bands around. This is going to be a fun show, and one not to be missed. For more than a decade, Mullett has been wowing audiences by delivering the best of the 1980s in Big Hair and amazing renditions of 80s favorites. This is the closest you get to classic Van Halen, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Journey, Poison, and countless others…proving that the 80s live on forever! Rocking out to Mullett is sure to bring you back in time!

Pimpinella, opens for Mullett and will get the party started at 7 p.m. with their special blend of timeless 70s classic rock hits, Funk, Disco, Soul, and R&B.

Gary LeVox Lead Singer Rascal Flatts

On Saturday, September 9, Gary LeVox, lead singer of the iconic country group, Rascal Flatts, takes the Build Ford Proud Stage at 8 p.m. Founded in 2000 Rascal Flatts scored 17 No. 1 hits, sold more than 23 million albums, and won 40+ award-show trophies, making them the most awarded country group of the last decade. “We are so excited to bring Gary LeVox, a world-class entertainer to the Norwalk Oyster Festival to help us celebrate our 45th annual Festival,” says, Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival, and President of the Norwalk Seaport Association. “Mr. Levox’s award-winning songs and legendary voice promise guests a show with all the hits that people love from Rascal Flatts plus some new stuff that they haven’t heard yet, making this performance one they will remember for years,” Reilly continued.

LeVox is known for having one of country music’s most distinctive voices that is pure joy to listen to. LeVox will be performing the chart toppers and well-known hits of Rascal Flatts as well as some of his new music. As the frontman in one of the most influential groups in country history, LeVox knows how to entertain. The Oyster Festival offers an intimate setting that makes interaction with the audience easy and fun and LeVox never disappoints with songs that everybody can relate to. LeVox is one of country music’s greatest vocalists, so Saturday night’s audience better get ready to saddle up for an unforgettable good time.

Singer/songwriter, J.D. Leonard who hails from Nashville Tennessee is opening for Gary LeVox on Saturday at 6 p.m. He’s written singles for the likes of Bonnie Tyler and placed a number of songs in over a dozen films. This band has shared the stage with Tyler Farr, Michael McDonald, Blues Traveler, and Edgar Winter, to name a few.

Sunday’s musical extravaganza begins @ 3 p.m. with BadBoy which will get the crowd up and dancing with their rock and country hits. The final concert of the 45th annual Oyster Festival ends on a high note with the legendary East Coast Rock ‘n’ Roll group, John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band. They will take the Built Ford Proud Stage at 5 p.m. The band is well known for their performance “On the Dark Side,” from the motion picture Eddie and the Cruisers, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. “On the Dark Side” landed in the Billboard Top 10, and was the No. 1 tune on the Album Rock Charts for five weeks. The album sold over three million copies and was certified Triple Platinum by the RIAA. “Tough All Over,” “Hearts on Fire,” from the Rocky IV movie, and C-I-T-Y are among the band’s mega hits. This band puts on a fantastic show that is sure to get people up and dancing.

John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band

Two New Entertainment Acts
To add to the fun, the organizers of the Norwalk Oyster Festival have added two new shows that are sure to amaze. These shows are perfect for the entire family because they will entertain folks of all ages from the beginning to the end.

The WOW Water Circus will take you on a fanciful and whimsical journey above and below the surface with their maritime merriment! Among the many daring feats of this aquatic spectacular is the daring high-speed Jet Ski aerial act that is as unique as it is thrilling.

If you are an animal lover, you won’t want to miss Canines in the Clouds. This is a heartwarming story about a journey from a shelter to stardom! This diverse cast of canine athletes that perform high-energy, gravity-defying stunts that are unique to this show, will dazzle you. A special highlight is to meet and greet these magnificent dogs after the show.

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival
Now in its 45th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for its music, wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village.

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