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From the Grand Ole Opry to Connecticut: Taylor Hicks Hosts New Country Music Festival August 1.

North Haven, CT - Country music fans across Connecticut have another reason to get excited about the inaugural Connecticut Country Music Festival coming to the North Haven Fairgrounds on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Festival organizers have announced that platinum-selling recording artist and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks will serve as the official host for what promises to be one of the state's biggest country music events of the summer. 


Known for his soulful voice, dynamic stage presence, and enduring popularity with fans nationwide, Hicks has built a successful career as a recording artist, live performer, television personality, and entertainer. His self-titled debut album achieved platinum status, and he has made multiple appearances on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage, solidifying his place in country and American roots music. 


Throughout the day, Hicks will interact with fans, introduce performers, and help keep the energy high as thousands gather for a full day of country music, food, beverages, and family-friendly entertainment. 


National Touring Artists Headline the Main Stage 

The Connecticut Country Music Festival will feature a strong lineup of nationally recognized country artists, led by rising country star Annie Bosko. 

Main Stage Lineup 

🎀 Annie Bosko – Headliner 

🎸 Mark Mackay 

🎢 Kristen Brown (NBC's The Voice) 

ο»Ώ

Spotlighting Connecticut's Local and Regional Talent 

In addition to nationally touring performers, the festival will showcase some of the region's top country and Americana talent on the Local & Regional Spotlight Stage. 

Local & Regional Spotlight Stage 

🎡 North County Band 

🎡 Al Raebuck 

🎡 The Joe D Band 

The festival's commitment to featuring local musicians provides fans with an opportunity to discover some of New England's most talented emerging artists while celebrating Connecticut's growing country music scene. 


More Than Just Music 

The Connecticut Country Music Festival is designed to deliver a complete festival experience with activities and attractions throughout the fairgrounds. 

Festival attendees will enjoy: πŸ” 20+ Food Trucks 🍺 Adult Beverage Selections 


FREE Festival Attractions Included with Admission 

🀠 FREE Line Dancing πŸ‚ FREE Mechanical Bull Rides πŸͺ“ FREE Axe Throwing πŸ’§ FREE Water Stations 

πŸš— FREE Parking uπŸ‡Έ America 250 Celebration Activities 

These complimentary attractions add tremendous value to the festival experience, giving attendees even more opportunities to enjoy a full day of entertainment beyond the music. 


With two stages of entertainment and activities running throughout the day, organizers are creating an event that appeals to both dedicated country music fans and anyone looking for a fun summer festival experience. 


Event Information 

πŸ“… Saturday, August 1, 2026 

πŸ“ North Haven Fairgrounds 

πŸ•š Gates Open at 11:00 AM 

🍻 21+ Event 

🎟️ Fairfield After Dark readers can save 10% on tickets by using promo code FAD10 at checkout. 

For tickets and additional event information, visit:   https://bit.ly/CTCOUNTRYFEST 

 

The Connecticut Country Music Festival is expected to draw fans from across Connecticut and neighboring states, making it one of the most anticipated new music festivals in New England. 


Dust off your boots, round up your concert crew, and join thousands of country music fans for an unforgettable day of live music, great food, festival fun, and FREE attractions as platinum-selling recording artist Taylor Hicks helps launch Connecticut's newest country music tradition. 

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From the Grand Ole Opry to Connecticut: Taylor Hicks Hosts New Country Music Festival August 1.
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