Share the news!
From Global Icon to Hometown Acts: Fairfield Hills Festival Returns May 16.
Newtown, CT – The countdown is on—less than a week remains until one of Western Connecticut’s most anticipated music events of the season arrives at Fairfield Hills. On Saturday, May 16, the Fairfield Hills Music Festival brings together 10 bands, a special book signing, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden for a full day of live entertainment and community celebration.
The buzz is real—see for yourself.
Special Appearance: Aaron Neville – Book signing (3pm-4pm)
Legendary five-time Grammy Award winner Aaron Neville will be on-site from 3:00–4:00 PM for a meet-and-greet and book signing of his memoir Tell It Like It Is. Limited copies of the book will be available for purchase.
Featured Performers
Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds (7:45pm – 9:30pm)
Headlining the festival, Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds deliver an electrifying mix of soul, funk, blues, and rock. Powered by Sister Sparrow’s commanding vocals, their bold horn section and high-energy stage presence have earned them a national reputation for unforgettable live shows.
The Moonrise Cartel (6:00pm-7pm)
Blending indie rock with atmospheric alternative tones, The Moonrise Cartel (from Black Rock) is known for emotionally charged songwriting and immersive live performances that move between soaring crescendos and intimate, reflective moments.
The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow (4:15pm – 5:15pm)
This Americana powerhouse, The Whiskey Treaty Roadshow, delivers a timeless fusion of folk, rock, and roots-driven storytelling. With rich harmonies and undeniable chemistry, the band’s live show creates a shared, high-energy experience with the audience at the center.
Jake Kulak & The Modern Vandals (2:30pm – 3:30pm)
A Connecticut-based standout led by guitarist Jake Kulak, the band fuses blues foundations with modern rock intensity. Expect gritty riffs, tight musicianship, and explosive live energy that resonates across generations.
Bittersweet Descent (12:45pm – 1:45pm)
Delivering emotionally charged alternative rock, Bittersweet Descent balances melodic depth with raw intensity. Their powerful performances build from introspective moments to soaring, hard-hitting crescendos.
SECOND STAGE
The Decker Bandits (7:00pm-7:45pm)
Bringing high-energy country rock to the stage, The Decker Bandits blend modern country with classic rock edge. Their set is packed with hooks, driving rhythms, and feel-good singalong moments built for festival crowds.
Eddie Seville (5:15pm – 6:00pm)
Eddie Seville delivers heartfelt songwriting through acoustic-driven folk, pop, and light rock. His honest lyrics and smooth melodies create a grounded, intimate performance that connects naturally with audiences.
Riley Cotton (3:30pm – 4:15pm)
A Texas transplant, now based in Hartford, Riley Cotton blends modern country-pop with catchy hooks and relatable storytelling. Her upbeat, radio-ready sound and confident stage presence make her a natural fit for the festival stage.
D’Pew brings a high-energy indie rock set defined by sharp lyricism, driving guitar work, and strong crowd connection. His dynamic performances keep audiences engaged, moving, and fully immersed.
The Flagpole Radio Band (12pm – 12:45pm)
A beloved Newtown hometown favorite, The Flagpole Radio Band delivers a high-energy mix of crowd-pleasing covers spanning decades. Their polished, interactive performances turn every set into a full-on singalong experience.
Event Details
Fairfield Hills Campus, Newtown, CT
Saturday, May 16, 2026, | 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM (GATE OPENS – 11:30AM)
2 Stages | 10 Bands | Food Trucks | Beer & Wine Garden
Tickets and information:
Fairfield Hills Music Festival Tickets
More than a music festival, the event supports an important community mission. Proceeds benefit Kevin’s Community Center, which promotes community wellness through outreach, education, and access to trusted medical resources. The organization also supports students pursuing healthcare careers and is launching Kevin’s Coffee Corner, a workforce development initiative for young people with special needs.
The festival is made possible through the support of volunteers, sponsors, and community partners whose contributions continue to help bring this impactful community event to life.
2026 Sponsors
Gold Sponsors: Prime MediSpa, Russell Insurance, Fairfield After Dark, Ingersoll Auto of Danbury
Silver Sponsors: Newtown Savings Bank, Ben’s Lighthouse
Bronze Sponsors: Stone Farm, Tauck Travel, Tradepath Media, Holmes Fine Gardens
Friends of KCC: Bill Glass Photography, Caraluzzi’s, Chabaso Bakery, ConnectFairfield, Cover Two Sports Cafe, Giglio Landscape Services, HereItThere, Nick’s Catering, Sippin Energy Products, Who’s Playing Where, and 203Local.
For tickets and additional festival information, visit: Fairfield Hills Msic Festival Official Ticket Page
