Tag: Summerfestival

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/

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Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of WIN with Music, Art, Nature, and Family Fun!

This year marks a milestone 10th anniversary of the Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) celebration, and the town is pulling out all the stops! From Friday, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, the whole town is coming alive with a vibrant mix of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you’re a longtime local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to dive into everything that makes Norfolk special.

One of the biggest highlights is the brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, taking place from 12 noon to 5 pm at Robertson Plaza. The plaza will be bustling with energy as a diverse mix of local organizations, artists, and authors showcase their creations and share their passions. With the street closed to traffic, it’s a safe and welcoming space for families to enjoy live music, delicious bites from local favorites like the Berkshire Country Store and Norfolk Pub, and the vibrant community spirit that makes this WIN so special.

Music lovers are in for a treat, as free performances abound all weekend long. From Friday night’s concert on the Green featuring Pat Attanasio to multiple Saturday showcases including the Emerging Artists at the Music Shed and popular local acts like the Grantville Dawgs and the Carol & Nick Jazz Duo, there’s something for every musical taste. Sunday rounds out the musical offerings with performances by Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb at Robertson Plaza, plus a free children’s concert at the Music Shed.

Discover the beauty and wonder of nature with WIN’s unforgettable outdoor experiences. Join a guided birding walk through the scenic Barbour Woods, or dive into 90 years of climate history at Great Mountain Forest’s historic weather station, where science meets storytelling. Whether you’re a curious explorer or a nature enthusiast, you’ll uncover how past weather data is shaping modern forecasting. Prefer to take things at your own pace? Stroll through Connecticut’s most charming Historic District on a self-guided walking tour, where centuries-old architecture whispers stories of the past. Or, if you’re craving adventure, explore Norfolk’s many trails and experience the raw, rugged beauty of the local landscape. Whatever your style, there’s a path waiting for you.

Families with children will find plenty to engage young minds and bodies, from a West African music and dance workshop with award-winning artist Iddi Saaka at the Norfolk Library, to Sunday morning yoga and meditation on the Village Green. And don’t miss the hands-on art and water play at Bottelle School, where kids can craft their masks and cool off under a fire truck’s refreshing spray!

Step back in time at the Norfolk Historical Society’s new exhibit, “A New Birth of Freedom: Norfolk in the Civil War.” This captivating display delves into the town’s role leading up to and during the Civil War, highlighting the brave individuals who fought to preserve the Union. On Saturday, August 2, history buffs can further enrich their experience with a guided tour of Center Cemetery, led by Barry Webber, the Society’s executive director.

For fishing enthusiasts, join expert fisherman Doug McDevitt, who is offering fly fishing seminars perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. With personalized instruction limited to five participants per session on Saturday and Sunday, you’ll receive hands-on guidance in the art of Spey casting, courtesy of equipment provided by Orvis of Avon. Nature lovers can also enjoy a peaceful Sunday stroll, August 3, through two private gardens linked by beautifully designed pathways and lush shade plantings—a serene escape for any garden enthusiast.

Meanwhile, cultural explorers will want to stop by the Connecticut Asia Cultural Center on Saturday, August 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for its annual festival. Visitors will be treated to immersive exhibits on Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, Christian, and Inca cultures, along with vibrant performances like the Tai Chi Fan Dance. Enjoy a complimentary Asian lunch box, participate in a Dragon Boat Racers competition, and attend engaging seminars and a traditional tea ceremony.

This beloved event invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of timeless activities, from heartfelt wedding vow renewals on the Green to captivating tours of Tiffany’s stained glass windows and the historic WhiteHouse. And of course, no community celebration is complete without cherished local traditions. Indulge in nostalgic delights like the blueberry Betty and ice cream social at Meadow Brook apartments on Saturday, or share in the joy of the children’s concert and ice cream social at the iconic Music Shed on the Battell estate on Sunday. Whether you’re reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, Summer WIN offers something special for everyone — a true celebration of connection, heritage, and joy.

With most events free and spread conveniently around town, you can explore at your own pace and find something for every interest and age group. Don’t miss this unforgettable summer celebration—check out the full schedule at weekendinnorfolk.org

ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE

Now in its tenth year, the all-volunteer WIN Committee organizes two town-wide events annually: the Summer WIN and the Winter WIN. Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and many local organizations, institutions, and individuals support these two town-wide festivals to welcome people from near and far to this lovely town in the Litchfield Hills. Information about both festivals is available online at weekendinnorfolk.org.

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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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Gary LeVox Lead Singer for Rascal Flatts Headlines 45th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Seaport Association is proud to announce that at the 45th Norwalk Oyster Festival Gary LeVox, Lead Singer for the contemporary country music band Rascal Flatts will Headline the 45th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival. This year the festival will take place on Friday, September 8, Saturday, September 9, and Sunday, September 10. On Saturday, September 9th, LeVox will perform countless #1 Rascal Flatts hits and some new music too.

“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.

Gary LeVox along with bandmates Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney, founded Rascal Flatts in 2000, and they went on to enjoy one of the most successful careers in modern country music. Infusing the genre’s traditional sound with massive pop hooks, rock showmanship, and faithful positivity, they scored 17 No. 1 singles and sold over 23 million albums, while also selling more than 11 million concert tickets and earning 40+ awards-show trophies – making them the most awarded country group of the last decade.

After 20 years as frontman, Gary LeVox is embarking on a solo chapter. His debut single “The Distance” is one of five songs on LeVox’s debut solo collection ONE ON ONE (Big Machine Records), which includes multiple compelling collaborations. LeVox followed the release of ONE ON ONE with “We Got Fight,” a song featured as the coveted end credit in Netflix’s film The Ice Road. LeVox has recently released his first solo country single, “Get Down Like That,” and plans to release more new music this year.

Now in its 45th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the maintenance and care of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a historic site on the National Register. The three-day Norwalk Oyster Festival which takes place on 42 Seaview Ave. in Veterans Park in Norwalk is held every September to celebrate the maritime heritage of Norwalk. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for its music, its wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village. The festival is taking place on Friday, September 8, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 9, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 10, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Rain or Shine. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org

The Festival volunteer organizers would like to thank all those that sponsor this event, including First County Bank, the Presenting Sponsor that helps to make this fundraising event possible.

JanetLeave a comment