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America’s Favorite Comic Daredevil Bello Nock Set to Mesmerize Crowds at Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular
STAMFORD CT – With a repertoire including virtually every major thrill act possible combined with endearing comedy and magical family entertainment, comic daredevil Bello Nock is set to amaze and delight the audience attending the 31st annual Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular on November 24.
The Greatest Showman on Earth, Daredevil, Comedian, Legend, Bello Nock last appeared at the Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular in 2019, and we are thrilled to welcome him back! You may recognize him from one of his many appearances on America’s Got Talent (AGT) or his many years headlining “The Greatest Show on Earth” (RBBB). Bello’s trademark blend of endearing comedy and jaw-dropping daredevil stunts has made him one of the most unique and exciting entertainers in the world today. He has been seen by over 100 million audience members in over 20,000 live performances in over 30 countries across 6 continents, as well as generated millions of views on TV and social media. TIME Magazine included Bello in their list of America’s Best Artists & Entertainers and the Wall Street Journal praised his “brand name level of recognition.”
Bello has captivated millions of fans around the world with daring feats such as walking on countless high wires, scaling buildings, jumping from a helicopter, being shot from a cannon and climbing to the top of sky-high Sway Poles. Bello has a unique ability to make people laugh while simultaneously performing dangerous stunts, pushing limits and raising the bar everywhere he goes, providing “…belly laughs and genuine gasps!” according to The New York Times.
Described by the NY Daily News as “arguably the greatest athlete ever to set foot in Madison Square Garden,” and featured in the Guinness Book of World Records, Bello will also be performing parts of his riveting act at the Balloon Inflation Party on Saturday, November 23. This pre-parade event, hosted by Point72 and taking place from 3-6 p.m. at the intersection of Hoyt Street and Summer Street in Stamford Downtown, will allow spectators a behind-the-scenes look at the balloons as they come to life and offer music, parade talent and cartoon characters to greet and entertain spectators.
Recognized as one of the premier parades in the nation, the Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular taking place on Sunday, November 24 is a collaboration between the Stamford Downtown Special Services District and the City of Stamford, supported by numerous community-oriented corporations and organizations that proudly sponsor our balloons, bands, and floats including The Ashforth Company, Cacace, Tusch & Santagata, Carmody Torrance Sandak & Hennessey LLP, Cross Insurance Greenwich, CT Transit Cummings & Lockwood LLC, Deloitte, F. D. Rich Company, George Comfort & Sons, Inc., Hartford HealthCare Urgent Care, Julius Apartment Homes, KPMG LLP, M&T Bank, NBCUniversal Syndication Studios, New England Investment Partners, Point72, Poland Spring, Reckson, RMS Companies, RXR, Silver Golub & Teitell LLP, Stamford Town Center, Stamford Urby, UConn Stamford, WIN Waste Innovations and with the support of the Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of Tourism and media partners Star 99, WEBE 108, WICC and Hey Stamford!
Planned highlights of the parade include balloons such as returning favorites Daniel Tiger, Elmo, Kung Fu Panda, Mr. Potato Head, Oscar the Grouch, Rudolph, Scooby-Doo, Shrek, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and more. In addition to the procession's signature balloons, the streets will also be filled with fabulous floats, dance groups and marching bands, including the 175-member Butler Golden Tornado Marching Band (all the way from Butler, Ohio!), NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band, Fairfield County Police Pipes and Drums and high school groups from High School Marching Bands from Westhill, Trumbull, John F. Kennedy from Waterbury, Brentwood, Uniondale and Wyandanch. A favorite float, Stamford’s Teacher of the Year, returns to host this year’s recipient Carolyn Tschinkel. Master of Ceremonies: Colin Cosell, PA Announcer for the NY Mets & NY Riptide, Colin Cosell will once again be the parade’s Master of Ceremonies for his third year.
The parade is scheduled to begin at noon on November 24 at the intersection of Summer Street at Hoyt Street and conclude on Atlantic Street, just a few short blocks from the Stamford Metro-North Railroad Station.
KIDZ BOP LIVE 2025 is Coming to Stamford on June 14th – A Certified BOP You Can’t Miss! Get ready, Fairfield County — the ultimate pop concert for kids (and their grown-ups!) is headed to town! The KIDZ BOP Kids are hitting the road in 2025 with their all-new Certified BOP Tour , and they’re bringing the party to The Palace Theatre Stamford for two shows on Saturday, June 14 at 1PM & 6PM . From the moment the lights go down, kids will be singing and dancing along to chart-toppers like “espresso,” “HOT TO GO,” and the unstoppable “Dance Monkey.” This high-energy concert delivers all the fun of a stadium tour but perfectly sized for the youngest fans — and just as thrilling for the parents. One of the fan-favorite moments returns this year: the hilarious Daddy Dance Off — so Dads, be prepared to show off your best moves on stage! Expect dazzling visuals, interactive stage elements, and a concert experience that many kids call their very first live show — and one they’ll never forget. 🎟 ️ FAD Exclusive Discount: Fairfield After Dark followers and subscribers get an exclusive 15% off with promo code SUMMER15 . Don't wait — tickets are going fast! 📍 Where & When: The Palace Theatre Stamford 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT Saturday, June 14, 2025 Showtimes: 1PM & 6PM 📣 As Hoda Kotb said: “They loved it… They didn’t want to leave at the end.” And Good Day New York nailed it with: “Forget the Eras Tour and Taylor Swift — this is gonna be a big tour!” 🎉 Make KIDZ BOP Live 2025 your family’s must-do event this summer. The energy, the music, the joy — it’s all a Certified BOP!
Script-in-Hand Reading Monday, June 9, 6:30 pm, Trefz Forum Grammy-nominated artist, trailblazing singer-songwriter, and Westport resident Sophie B. Hawkins will be showcasing her new original musical drama Birds of New York in an exclusive script-in-hand performance at The Westport Library on Monday, June 9, at 6:30 pm . The event will take place in the Library’s Trefz Forum. Tickets are $40 and available for purchase here . True to the trademark authenticity and soulfulness that has defined her diverse career, this special performance offers an early look at Hawkins’ playwriting debut, with original music, wholehearted storytelling, and emotional depth that promises to resonate with fans and theater lovers of all ages. Currently in development, Birds of New York is directed by acclaimed Broadway and West End choreographer/director JoAnn M. Hunter (School of Rock, Bad Cinderella, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) and features an ensemble of Broadway and local talent, including actors Liz Larsen, Carlos Velasquez Escamilla, Sarah Stiles, Ren King, and Alysha Umphress. Birds of New York brings to life the story of an estranged daughter who returns home to New York City with her 7-year-old son to reconnect with her dying father. Amid the tensions of old conflicts with her mother and sister, she seizes on the opportunity to create a new family. When a painful childhood memory resurfaces, it sets the stage for forgiveness, healing, and redemption. This performance comes in tandem with Hawkins’ 2025 tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of her second album, Whaler. An accomplished multi-instrumentalist, producer, and performer, Hawkins is best known for her platinum debut album Tongues and Tails and timeless hits like “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” and “As I Lay Me Down.” Her most recent album, Free Myself, was released in 2023 to international acclaim. Hawkins’ multifaceted career has defied genre and industry expectations, with six studio albums, multiple awards, sold-out concerts, and songs featured in movies and on television — from recent hits Stranger Things, Euphoria, Ozark, and PEN15, to landmark series such as Beverly Hills 90210, Dawson’s Creek, The L Word, and more. Her memorable onscreen appearances include the celebrated NBC series Community, the acclaimed documentary film The Cream Will Rise, and a critically lauded performance as Janis Joplin in the nationally touring play Room 105. “One thing I’ve heard from people is that my songs have been like teachers to them, and helped them along on their journey,” Hawkins said. “I hope my music helps people feel more connected to their own heart. I hope it brings them closer to whatever makes them feel special and valuable. That’s what the music I love most has always done for me.” *** Event Information at a Glance Birds of New York: A Script-in-Hand Musical Drama Performance by Sophie B. Hawkins Monday, June 9 6:30 pm Trefz Forum, The Westport Library Story: https://westportlibrary.org/critically-acclaimed-singer-songwriter-sophie-b-hawkins-premieres-new-musical-drama-birds-of-new-york-at-the-westport-library/ Event listing: https://westportlibrary.org/event/birds-of-new-york-a-script-in-hand-musical-drama-performance-by-sophie-b-hawkins/ Ticket link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/birds-of-new-york-a-script-in-hand-musical-drama-tickets-1295695162109 *** About The Westport Library Founded in 1886, built in 1908, and transformed in 2019, The Westport Library is one of the most active and innovative public libraries in the nation, devoted to enriching the intellectual and creative lives of the community. Among its many highlights are a full collection of books for children, teens, and adults; an engaging and colorful Children’s Library; a MakerSpace; a Library of Things; a Seed Library; a robust café and store; and professional art installations that rotate throughout the year. The Westport Library is also home to Verso Studios, replete with an SSL hybrid analog sound studio and broadcast control suite featuring a state-of-the-art console and six robotic cameras, and the Trefz Forum, an open, flexible space that can accommodate up to 600 patrons and features an 18-foot video wall, 35-foot stage, state-of-the-art sound, and theatrical lighting. Situated in the heart of downtown Westport overlooking the scenic Saugatuck River, The Westport Library annually hosts StoryFest, the largest literary festival in Connecticut, and VersoFest, its multi-day music and media festival. Above all, the Library strives to serve the whole community as a vibrant gathering spot where people of all ages come to seek information, gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and share experiences. For more information, visit westportlibrary.org .
With Memorial Day Weekend now in the rearview mirror, summer in Fairfield County is officially in full swing—and there’s no better way to celebrate than by diving headfirst into the season’s vibrant lineup of concerts, festivals, carnivals, and more. This week, Fairfield After Dark is proud to shine a spotlight on our incredible sponsor: SONO 1420 America’s Maritime Distillery , located in the heart of South Norwalk at 19 Day Street. A Toast to Summer, Courtesy of SONO 1420 Known for their house-made spirits, small-batch cocktails, and the ever-growing buzz of their Acoustic SONO Music Series , SONO 1420 has become the heartbeat of SONO. For the past three months, their Friday night concerts have been a hotbed of local talent—featuring a non-stop lineup of incredible musicians that has lit up the block and packed the distillery with a community of music lovers. From indie acoustic sets to soulful blues and high-energy folk, each performance has been nothing short of stellar. But SONO 1420 isn’t just your Friday night go-to. Planning a birthday bash, corporate outing, or rehearsal dinner? This unique venue offers customizable event packages that include: Casual space for up to 100 guests Charcuterie options or BYO catering Distillery-crafted cocktails and Spacecat Brewery beers BYO wine options Optional private distillery tours and personalized bottle gifting Whether you're planning something intimate or epic, SONO 1420 has the style and spirit to make it unforgettable. So…Where’s the Fun Happening This Weekend? Ready to explore? Here’s your go-to guide for the best festivals, fairs, and concerts from Wednesday, May 28 through Sunday, June 1 —all happening in and around Fairfield County: WEDNESDAY, MAY 28 Piermont, NY : Charanga Duo at Otto’s (6–9pm) Stamford : Comedian Kevin Sullivan at NY Comedy Club (7pm) THURSDAY, MAY 29 Fairfield : ACE & Friends at Sherman Green Gazebo (6:30–8pm) Danbury : City Center Chow-Down 2025 (11:30am–1:30pm) Milford : Rock the Dock for Mental Health, Lisman Landing Marina (5:30–8pm) New Milford : 100 Proof + Henna By Elyse at Rock the Block (4–6pm) Newtown : JC Hill at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards (5:30–8:30pm) Piermont, NY : Jazz Night at Otto’s (6–9pm) Stamford : Comedians Matt Pavich, Liz Barrett, Jake Velazquez, Jared Harvin at New York Comedy Club Stamford (7pm) FRIDAY, MAY 30 Bridgeport : Elana Zabari LIVE at Port 5 (5–8:30pm) Danbury : Lebanese Mahrajan Festival, CityCenter (5–11pm) Newtown : Michael Malone at Aquila’s Nest (5:30–8:30pm) Newtown : Yappy Hour at Aquila’s Nest (6:30–8:30pm) Norwalk : Neil Currie – Acoustic SONO Music Series at SONO 1420 (6–9pm) Milford : School of Rock at Fowler Field (6pm) Shelton : Food Trucks on the River, Veteran’s Memorial Park (5–10pm) Stamford : That’s Fair Comedy at NY Comedy Club (9:30pm) SATURDAY, MAY 31 Danbury : Lebanese Mahrajan Festival continues (11am–11pm) Danbury : Roomful of Blues at The Palace Theatre (7:30pm) Fairfield : The Underdogs at Sherman Green Gazebo (6:30–8pm) Fairfield : Sugar Mountain at FTC’s StageOne (8pm) Harwinton : Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire (10:30am–6pm) Newtown : Iris Lies (2–5pm) & Pink Floyd Tribute Show (6–9pm) at Aquila’s Nest New London : Strawberry Festival & Craft Show at N. Stonington Fairground (11am–7pm) Shelton : Food Trucks on the River (11am–8pm) Stamford : Bark in the Park – Latham Park (11am–3pm) Stamford : Comedian Scott Thompson as Buddy Cole (7pm), plus Saturday Night Comedy (9:30pm) at NY Comedy Club Torrington : Strawberry Festival in Coe Memorial Park (10am–3pm) SUNDAY, JUNE 1 Bridgeport : Josh A at Port 5 (3pm) Fairfield : The Sun Kings at Sherman Green Gazebo (6:30–8pm) Harwinton : Robin Hood’s Medieval Faire (10:30am–6pm) Naugatuck : Duck Day & Festival, Maple Street (11am–4pm) Newtown : Filo Fox (1–4pm) & Albanian Night (5–9pm) at Aquila’s Nest New Canaan : New Canaan Dog Days at the Nature Center (11am–4pm) New London : Strawberry Festival & Craft Show continues (11am–7pm) New Milford : Pets in the Park, Pettibone Park (11am–4pm) Stamford : Sunday Night Comedy Showcase at NY Comedy Club (7pm) Wilton : Food Truck Festival at Wilton Historical Society (11am–4pm)
Newtown, CT — Summer 2025 The magic of movies under the stars returns! Back by popular demand, the Edmond Town Hall Drive-In Theater is gearing up for another unforgettable season of classic films, community fun, and nostalgic charm. Gather your friends, load up the car, and head to the rear parking lot of Edmond Town Hall where a giant screen transforms the back of the building into an open-air cinema. Tune your radio, kick back, and enjoy the show. Tailgating is welcome , so feel free to bring your own comfy setup! 🎥 2025 Summer Drive-In Schedule All movies begin at 9:00 PM | Fridays & Saturdays June 6 & 7: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (PG) June 13 & 14: Friday the 13th (R) June 20 & 21: Grease (PG) June 27 & 28: Major League (R) July 11 & 12: Ghostbusters (PG) July 25 & 26: Carrie (R) August 8 & 9: The Big Lebowski (R) August 15 & 16: Close Encounters of the Third Kind (PG) August 22 & 23: The NeverEnding Story (PG) August 29 & 30: Dirty Dancing (PG-13) 🎟️ Tickets $25 per carload Pack your vehicle with family or friends—your whole crew watches for one low price! 🍿 Concessions Don’t forget to stop by the concession stand near the screen , stocked with: Freshly popped popcorn Candy & soft drinks Hot dogs Nachos Pretzels And more! 🎬 Presented by Community Partners This year’s drive-in movie series is made possible through the following generous sponsorships: Title Sponsors Overhead Door Company of Brookfield New England Electrical Contracting Rob Rozz Plumbing Local Business Partnerships Eastern Water Solutions Golden Aesthetics Lathrop School of Dance Bethel Peachwave Patricia’s Presents Baum Braces North Country Landscape Management Thanks to these local businesses, Edmond Town Hall is thrilled to offer a summer lineup that’s sure to delight movie lovers of all ages. ☔ Rain Policy In the event of inclement weather, credit will be issued for a future movie or event. Check the Edmond Town Hall website or follow them on Facebook for the latest updates. Cancellations will be announced by 6:00 PM on event nights. 📍 Location Edmond Town Hall Drive-In Theater 45 Main Street, Newtown, CT 06470 The parking lot entrance is behind the building. Whether you're reliving childhood favorites or discovering cult classics for the first time, the Edmond Town Hall Drive-In is the perfect way to enjoy a fun, affordable night out this summer. See you at the movies!
Two-Day Festival Returns to Restaurant Plaza June 21-22, Featuring Expanded Programming and Free Admission Stamford Town Center proudly announces its Fifth Annual Summer Block Party, taking place Saturday and Sunday, June 21 and 22, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the Restaurant Plaza at 230 Tresser Boulevard. Hosted in partnership with Hey Stamford!, Stamford Moms, and BFAMERICAS, this milestone celebration marks five successful years of bringing the Stamford community together for what has become one of the city's most anticipated summer traditions. The fifth annual event represents a significant evolution from the festival's origins, now featuring free admission and expanded programming that showcases the vibrant spirit of Stamford's diverse community. The Restaurant Plaza will once again transform into a festival atmosphere, celebrating local arts, culture, food, and entertainment. "We're incredibly proud to mark five successful years of bringing the community together through our Summer Block Party," said Dan Stolzenbach, General Manager of Stamford Town Center. "What started as a celebration has evolved into a signature event that truly showcases the vibrant spirit of Stamford. Each year, we've watched this event grow alongside our community, and we're excited to continue serving as the central meeting place where neighbors become friends and memories are made." Festival Highlights This year's expanded celebration will feature an impressive lineup of entertainment and activities designed for the entire family: Live Entertainment: Local bands and DJs will provide continuous performances throughout both days, creating an energetic soundtrack for the festivities. The diverse musical programming reflects Stamford's rich cultural tapestry. Culinary Experience: All Restaurant Plaza establishments will participate with special menu items and food stations, offering attendees the opportunity to sample the best of Stamford's dining scene. From casual favorites to upscale offerings, the culinary experience promises something for every palate. Family Activities: Interactive entertainment including face painting, balloon artists, and engaging games will keep younger attendees entertained throughout the day. These activities are designed to create lasting memories for families attending the celebration. Local Business Showcase: A vendor marketplace will highlight Stamford's thriving small business community, providing a platform for local entrepreneurs to connect with residents and visitors. Community Engagement: Raffle prizes from Stamford Town Center retailers will add excitement to the weekend, while providing opportunities for attendees to discover new favorite stores and restaurants. Event Information Dates: Saturday and Sunday, June 21 and 22, 2025 Time: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. both days Location: Restaurant Plaza, Stamford Town Center (230 Tresser Boulevard, Stamford, CT) Admission: Free Food & Beverages: Available for purchase from participating restaurants Parking: Available in the Stamford Town Center garage The decision to offer free admission reflects Stamford Town Center's commitment to accessibility and community engagement, ensuring that all residents can participate in this beloved summer tradition. About Stamford Town Center Stamford Town Center is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Stamford. A beloved fixture of the community, it features nearly 100 distinct stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The shopping center’s pedestrian-friendly restaurant plaza features an assortment of fine dining and entertainment such as The Capital Grille, The New York Comedy Club, Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings, Puerto Vallarta, and Terra Gaucha. For a complete list of stores, restaurants, hours of operation, and promotions, visit www.shopstamfordtowncenter.com and follow on Instagram and Facebook @StamfordTownCenter. Throughout its history, Stamford Town Center has remained committed to serving as more than just a shopping destination – it's a gathering place where community connections are forged and celebrated. The annual Summer Block Party exemplifies this mission, bringing together residents and visitors in a celebration of what makes Stamford special. For more information about the Fifth Annual Summer Block Party and other upcoming events, visit www.shopstamfordtowncenter.com and follow @StamfordTownCenter on Instagram and Facebook.
Country fans, mark your calendars! On June 21 , rising country powerhouse Meghan Patrick hits the UpStage at The Palace Theatre Stamford for a night of raw emotion, powerhouse vocals, and fearless storytelling. Ontario-born and Nashville-based, Meghan Patrick has been carving her name into the country music scene with her bold blend of vulnerability and grit. A two-time CCMA Female Artist of the Year , Patrick’s reputation as a genre-pushing artist is sealed with Golden Child – her most honest and vulnerable work yet. In this deeply personal project, Patrick peels back the layers of her past and reclaims her voice, coining the term Big Sister Country to describe the advice-laced, experience-driven sound that now defines her. “Fulfillment doesn’t just come from money or awards,” Meghan shares. “I’ve learned it comes from honesty and connection. That’s what this album is about.” Expect a show packed with emotional highs and fiery lows – from her funk, jazz, and opera roots to her country anthems influenced by legends like Waylon Jennings and John Prine . Her journey from small-town girl to genre-bending force is as inspiring as it is entertaining. 🎟 ️ Tickets are selling fast – grab yours and witness the rise of a true country original.