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Fairfield After Dark’s Weekly Guide to Concerts, Festivals & Fairs in and around Fairfield County

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 


THURSDAY, MAY 29 


FRIDAY, MAY 30 


SATURDAY, MAY 31 


SUNDAY, JUNE 1 

Fairfield After Dark’s Weekly Guide to Concerts, Festivals & Fairs in  and around Fairfield County
By Cathy Ithier September 7, 2025
Milford, CT — Smooth seas and soft rock nostalgia are coming to Milford! On Friday, September 12 at 8:00 PM , the Milford Veterans Memorial Auditorium welcomes the Yacht Lobsters for a night of breezy hits, funky vibes, and irresistible fun. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with tickets starting at just $29.00 —plus free venue parking . Audiences can expect the ultimate Yacht Rock classics from the ‘70s and ‘80s, including Steely Dan’s “Reelin’ in the Years” , Toto’s “Africa” and “Rosanna” , Hall & Oates’ “Rich Girl” , and timeless favorites from Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, and The Doobie Brothers. With tight horns, dynamic guitars, lush harmonies , and a splash of funk , the Yacht Lobsters deliver a show as smooth as it is unforgettable. Guests are encouraged to get into the spirit—deck shoes, Hawaiian shirts, and Captain’s hats highly recommended! Full Moon Brewing’s Mobile Bar and concessions will keep the good times flowing all evening. Best of all, the concert benefits the Beth-El Center , a Milford nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness and hunger through shelter, outreach, and support services. 📅 Friday, September 12 · 8:00 PM 📍 Milford Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 70 West River St., Milford, CT 🎟️ Reserved Seat Tickets: $28.52 – $55.20 (All ages welcome) 
By Cathy Ithier September 3, 2025
Looking for the best ways to spend your weekend in and around Fairfield County? From live music and comedy to fairs, festivals, and family fun 🎡👨‍👩‍👧, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top picks for each day, Wednesday through Sunday: Wednesday, September 3 🎶 Charlie Apicella & Iron City LIVE – Catch this jazz-soul fusion at La Zingara in Bethel (7–9:15pm). 🦁 Beardsley Zoo Joins the CT Season Pass – A family-friendly outing in Bridgeport (10am). 🎶 The Short Bus Band at Waveny Park – Free outdoor concert in New Canaan (7:30–9:30pm). 📣 Newtown: Book Signing with Author Maria Flores at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6pm) 📣 Newtown: Salsa & Bachata Dance Night at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6pm) 📣 Newtown: Sunset Sound Bath at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6:30pm) Stamford: Open Play Chess in Veterans Memorial Park – Stamford(12pm-2pm) Stamford: Jazz Trio in Kiwanis Park(6pm) 📣 Stamford: Comedians James Goff, Lauren Hope Krass, Joe Mahoney, Ben Kirschenbaum at New York Comedy Club Stamford (7pm) Thursday, September 4 🎶 Sun Kings: A Beatles Tribute – Live on the Great Lawn in Cos Cob (6:30–8pm). 🎡 North Haven Fair – Classic rides, games, and fair food (5–10pm). 😂📣 Josh Wolf: The Campfire Tour – Nationally known comedian at Edmond Town Hall, Newtown (8–10pm). Bridgeport: Beardsley Zoo is now part of the CT Season Pass!(10am) Danbury: Line Dancing at Elicit Brewing Danbury(7pm) Danbury: Thursday Open Jam w/ Sugar House LIVE at Sugar Hollow Taproom(8pm-11pm) Fairfield: Fai Laci W/ The Tines | Showpony LIVE at StageOne FTC(7pm) Fairfield: CT Seaport Car Club's Car Cruises at Elicit Brewing Fairfield(5pm) New Canaan: THE EFFECT(7:30pm) 📣Newtown: Llamas and Llibations at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(5:30pm) 📣Newtown: Emma Henning LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(5:30pm-8:30pm) 📣Newtown: Wine, Words & Wisdom Book Club Series at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6:30pm) 📣Newtown: Glen Roth LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(5:30pm-8:30pm) Old Greenwich: Mojo LIVE at Bosco's Bar and Grill(9pm-12am) Ridgefield: Ramblin' Dan Stevens LIVE at Nod Hill Brewery(6:30pm) Sherman: Open Mic Night - JCC in Sherman(6:30pm-8:45pm) Weston: Summer Thursdays at Weston History & Culture Center(1pm-4pm) Friday, September 5 🎡📣 Norwalk Oyster Festival – A beloved tradition with music, food, and fun (6–11pm). 🎶📣 Eliot Lewis (from Hall & Oates) LIVE – Reverie Brewing, Newtown (7–10pm). 🎤📣 Funny Marco – Comedy night at New York Comedy Club, Stamford (7–9pm). Bridgeport: Beardsley Zoo is now part of the CT Season Pass!(10am) Bridgeport: Ethyl Flying Solo LIVE at Port 5(5pm-8:30pm) Bethlehem: Bethlehem Fair(5pm-10pm) Bethel: BARN RATS LIVE at Notch8(8pm) 📣Danbury: Danbury’s Brazilian Festival(12pm-10pm) Danbury: Five to One w/ Bad Spell LIVE at Sugar Hollow Taproom(8:30pm) Fairfield: Jukebox Radio at Elicit Brewing Fairfield(9pm) North Haven: North Haven Fair(3pm-11pm) Naugatuck: St. Michael's Village Green Fair – Naugatuck(10am-8pm) Newtown: Jessi Rose LIVE at Perfusion Bar(8-11pm) 📣Newtown: Round Two Acoustical Duo LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(5:30pm-8:30pm) 📣Newtown: Friends & Family Glow Night in the Vines at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6pm) 📣Newtown: Girl Scout Cookies & Wine Pairing at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6pm) 📣Newtown: Local Cheese & Wine Pairing at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(6pm) 📣Newtown : Bobby Wheeler LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(5:30pm-8:30pm) Newtown: Johnny Chapman - LIVE at Newsylum Brewing Co.(6pm-9pm) Newtown: Eliot Lewis (From Hall & Oates) LIVE at Reverie Brewing(7pm-10pm) 📣Norwalk: Oyster Festival(6pm-11pm) Norwalk: Geoff Hartwell at O'Neils(10pm) 📣Norwalk: Henry Jones LIVE at SONO 1420(6pm-9pm) Norwalk: Sonic Bullet LIVE at 314 Beer Garden(7:30pm-10:30pm) Old Greenwich: The Wankers LIVE at Bosco's Bar and Grill(9pm-12am) Ridgefield: Brian Dolzani LIVE at Nod Hill Brewery(6:30pm) Redding: Mike Milazzo LIVE at The Redding Roadhouse(7pm-10pm) Rowayton: Tangled Vine LIVE at Sails American Grill(9:30pm-12am) Shelton: Carrie Ashton at Jones Winery(5–7pm) Stratford: Jordan LIVE at Outriggers(5:30pm-8:30pm) 😂📣Stamford: Comedian Funny Marco at New York Comedy Club Stamford(7pm-9pm) Sherman: MahJongg Fridays LIVE at JCC in Sherman(12pm) 📣Westport: Steve Keith at Music on Church Lane(6:00pm – 9:00pm) Westport: Retro Express LIVE at Black Duck Cafe(9:30pm) Saturday, September 6 🎉📣 14th Annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo – Stamford’s Harbor Point (10am–5pm). 🎶 Mihali (Full Band Show) – Levitt Pavilion, Westport (5pm). 🎡 North Haven Fair – A full day of rides, food, and entertainment (10am–11pm). Bridgeport: HarborFest w/Shameless at Port 5(3pm) 📣Bridgeport: Beardsley Zoo is now part of the CT Season Pass!(10am) Bridgeport: Bridgeport Green Festival(12pm-6pm) Bridgeport: Ladies Game Day at Port 5 Naval Vets(1pm-3pm) 📣Bethlehem: Bethlehem Fair(8am-9pm) Bethel: ERIK RABASCA LIVE at Shakedown Street(6:30pm) Bethel: LOST REBEL LIVE at Notch8(8pm) 📣Danbury: Danbury’s Brazilian Festival(12pm-8pm) Danbury: Tony & The West Siders at Charter Oak Brewing(4pm-7pm) Danbury: Pimpinella LIVE at Sugar Hollow Taproom(8:30pm) Darien: ZULLY & THE OGS LIVE at The Goose(9pm-12am) Fairfield: Jamie Hulley Arts Foundation presents Jay Stollman and the All-Stars(6:30pm-10pm) Fairfield: The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band W/ The Hooten Hallers LIVE at StageOne FTC(7pm) Fairfield: Not My Problem LIVE at Elicit Brewing Fairfield(9pm) Greenwish: Kovac Brothers LIVE at Clubhouse at the Griff(7pm-10pm) Glastonbury: 2025 Glastonbury Fine Art and Craft Show(10am-5pm) Lebanon: 27th Annual Connecticut Renaissance Faire(10:30-6pm) 📣Monroe: St. Peter’s Grace Apple Festival(10am-5pm) 📣Milford: Milford Elks Health & Wellness Fair(10am-5pm) New Canaan: MIND THE GAP LIVE at Gates Restaurants and Bar(11:30pm) 📣Newtown: Cheese Fondue Dip & Sip at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(12pm) 📣Newtown: Mutts Gone Nuts at Edmond Town Hall(2pm-4pm) 📣Newtown: Teacup Sallie LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(2pm-5pm) 📣Newtown: A Night of Timeless Classics at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards(6pm-9pm) 📣Newtown: Frandango LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(2:30pm-5:30pm) Newtown: Newtown All Stars ft. Luke Bemand, Ben Atkind, & Jared Sage Cowen LIVE at Reverie Brewing(3pm-6pm) Newtown: Scratch LIVE at Blimp Fest 2025(3pm-6pm) Newtown: Between The Keys LIVE at Perfusion Bar(8-11pm) Norwalk: Ellis Island Band LIVE at 314 Beer Garden(7:30pm-10:45) North Haven: North Haven Fair(10am-11pm) North Branford: North Branford Fall Craft Fair(9am-2pm) 📣New London: CT Maritime Heritage Festival(10am-5pm) Naugatuck: St. Michael's Village Green Fair – Naugatuck(10am-7pm) 📣Norwalk: Oyster Festival(11am-11pm) Ridgefield: Fat Boi's Brass Band LIVE at Nod Hill Brewery(5pm) Redding: Captain Obvious LIVE at Milestone(9pm-12am) Sherman: Sherman Chamber Ensemble at Sherman Summer Concert Series(4:00pm – 7:00pm) Stamford: Open Play Chess in Latham Park – Stamford(1pm-3pm) Stamford: Hot Mezz at The Beer Garden (Shippan Landing)(5pm-8pm) 😂📣Stamford: Comedian Funny Marco at New York Comedy Club Stamford(7pm-9:30pm) Stratford: Chris Marolda LIVE at Outriggers(5:30pm-8:30pm) 📣Southbury: Southbury Celebration(4:30pm-9pm) 📣Westport: Owen Daniel (Solo) at Music on Church Lane(6:00pm – 9:00pm) Westport: MIHALI * Full Band Show * w/s/g Soule Monde and w/ Mr. Mota LIVE at Levitt Pavilion(5pm) Westport: Cooked Up LIVE at Black Duck Cafe(9:30pm) Wethersfield: Wethersfield Cornfest(10am-6pm) Wilton: 'TheDisneyPinventory' Pin Trading Event(11:30am-3pm) Sunday, September 7 🎡 Norwalk Oyster Festival – Family fun, live music, and great seafood (11am–8pm). 🎶 📣 Memories of Patsy – Tribute Show – The Palace Danbury Theatre (3pm). 🐝 Honey Harvest Festival – A sweet day out at Stamford Museum & Nature Center (11am–3pm). Bridgeport: KT Lay LIVE at Port 5( 3:00 PM) Bridgeport: Beardsley Zoo is now part of the CT Season Pass!(10am) Bridgeport: Peace Talks Reception at Crown Gallery at Metro Art Studios(1pm-3pm) Bridgeport: The Lonetown Boys at Park City Music Hall(6pm-9pm) Bethlehem: Bethlehem Fair(8am-5:30pm) Bethel: DEAN SNELLBACK LIVE at Shakedown Street(12pm) Bethel: FIVE TO ONE LIVE at Notch8(5pm) Danbury: Barry Blumenfield at Charter Oak Brewing(3pm-5pm) Glastonbury: 2025 Glastonbury Fine Art and Craft Show(10am-5pm) Lebanon: 27th Annual Connecticut Renaissance Faire(10:30am-6pm) 📣Monroe: St. Peter’s Grace Apple Festival(10am-4pm) New London: CT Maritime Heritage Festival(10am-5pm) North Haven: North Haven Fair(10am-7pm) 📣Newtown: Italian Music Brunch with Primavera Band at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(11:30pm) 📣Newtown: Myron and the Jam Fam LIVE at Aquila's Nest Vineyards(2pm-5pm) 📣Newtown: Tom Petty Tribute Show at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards(6pm-9pm) Newtown: Iris Lies LIVE at Newsylum Brewing Co(2pm-5pm) 📣Norwalk: Oyster Festival(11am-8pm) Norwalk: Fan Fiction LIVE at 314 Beer Garden(2:30pm-6pm) Ridgefield: The Dave Savitsky Trio LIVE at Nod Hill Brewery(2:30pm) Redding: Owen Daniel LIVE at Milestone(4pm-7pm) Redding: Captain Obvious LIVE at Milestone(9pm-12am) Shelton: Dan Carlucci at Jones Winery(2–4pm) Stamford: Honey Harvest Festival(11am-3pm) Weston: Summer Sundays at Weston History & Culture Center(1pm-4pm) Weston: One Bad Oyster at Music at the Barn(5:30pm-7pm) Westport: Amy Irving LIVE at Levitt Pavilion(7pm) 👉 Whether you’re into live concerts, community festivals, or family fun, this week is packed with experiences that bring people together. Grab your friends and family, and make the most of this long list of things to do in and around Fairfield County!
By Cathy Ithier September 2, 2025
From piano bars to center stage, Sean O’Reilly is redefining the local music scene with a sound that blends harp, piano, and poetic lyricism. Influenced by Tori Amos and Jeff Buckley, Sean’s music fuses classical depth with indie edge—offering a performance that feels more like a conversation than a concert. Catch him September 17, 2025, at Park City Music Hall in Black Rock , where he’ll debut his brand-new five-piece band. Expect lush arrangements, original songs, and a few surprises. 🎟️ Tickets: ParkCityMusicHall.com
September 2, 2025
Norwalk, CT – September 2025 – The Moonrise Cartel, led by Norwalk native, singer/songwriter Al Pascarelli, will perform on the Optimum Main Stage at the 47th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival. Their set is scheduled for Saturday, September 6, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM, leading into headliner Parmalee. Known for soaring harmonies and a sound that blends indie folk rock with touches of gospel, The Moonrise Cartel has been winning over audiences across Connecticut. Coming off a string of sold-out shows—including their upcoming September 27 performance at Fairfield Theatre Company—this Oyster Festival appearance offers the perfect opportunity to experience the band live in their hometown. The Oyster Festival, produced by the Norwalk Seaport Association, is one of the region’s largest and most beloved community events, offering music, food, and family-friendly entertainment. For full festival details, schedules, and ticket information, visit www.seaport.org.
By Jan McLean September 1, 2025
Looking for a fun new activity that gets you moving, meeting people, and laughing along the way? The Rocking Rooster Square Dance Club of Newtown invites you to discover the joy of modern square dancing —no experience required! Free Introductory Lessons Kick things off with two free beginner-friendly classes on: 📅 Tuesday, September 9 & Tuesday, September 16 🕢 7:30–9:00 PM 📍 United Church of Christ, 283 Main St North, Southbury, CT These lessons are designed for absolute beginners, so whether you’ve danced before or never tried a single step, you’ll feel right at home. Why Square Dancing? 👣 No experience needed – It’s as easy as walking to music. 💃 No partner required – Come solo or bring friends. 👟 No special attire – Just wear comfortable shoes. 😀 Smiles guaranteed – You’ll leave feeling energized and connected. Square dancing isn’t just about learning steps—it’s about building friendships, sharing laughter, and enjoying music in a welcoming community. How to Join Ready to give it a try? Simply show up to one (or both!) of the free sessions. After that, beginner-friendly classes will continue for those who want to keep dancing. 📧 Email: happycaller558@gmail.com ? ? Call: 203-270-9676 🌐 Visit: www.rockingroosters.net  Don’t Miss Out! Come with an open mind and a sense of fun—you’ll be surprised how quickly you catch on. Modern square dancing is more than just a dance; it’s a chance to move, laugh, and connect with a vibrant community. 👉 Mark your calendar for September 9 and 16—you’ll be glad you did!
September 1, 2025
Milford, CT — Get ready to sail away on a smooth sea of soft rock nostalgia and catch the Yacht Rock wave! On Friday, September 12 at 8:00p.m. the Milford Veterans Memorial Auditorium will drop anchor for one unforgettable voyage as the Yacht Lobsters cruise into town. Doors open at 7:00p.m. Tickets as low as $29.00. You can dock your vessel worry free with free venue parking! Expect the greatest Yacht Rock hits of the ‘70s and ‘80’s: Steely Dan’s “Reelin’ in the Years”, Toto’s “Africa” and “Rosanna”, Hall & Oates’ “Rich Girl”, and smooth grooves from Michael McDonald, The Doobie Brothers, Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, and many more all delivered with the Yacht Lobsters’ signature tight horns, dynamic guitars, lush harmonies, and a tidal wave of fun. Whether you’re a captain, first mate, or just along for the ride, the Yacht Lobsters promise a show that will keep you afloat with good vibes, irresistible beats, and a splash of funk. So polish your deck shoes, press those Hawaiian shirts, grab your Captain's hat, and prepare to rock the boat (without tipping it over). Enjoy Full Moon Brewing’s Mobile Bar Services and concessions, all night long! Best of all, this is more than just smooth sailing—it’s a benefit concert supporting the BethEl Center, an anchor in the Milford community dedicated to ending homelessness and helping neighbors find safe harbor. Event Details: 📅 Date & Time: Friday, September 12 · 8:00 PM EDT 📍 Location: Milford Veterans Memorial Auditorium 70 West River St. (Corner of West River St. and West Main St.) Milford, CT 06460 🚗 Parking: Free venue parking 💵 Refund Policy: No refunds ️ 🎟️ Reserved Seat Tickets: $28.52 to $55.20 - This is an all-ages show! Don’t miss the boat—this is one night you’ll want on your calendar!
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