By Cathy Ithier
•
July 22, 2025
Connecticut is sizzling with summer energy this weekend! From pickle-packed parties and Italian celebrations to firemen’s carnivals, jazz legends, and global dance beats—there’s something festive for every age and taste. Here's your can't-miss list for July 25–27 , plus bonus happenings and insider tips to plan your adventure. 🎶 Celebrate Shelton – Downtown Sounds Summer Concerts 📍 Shelton 🗓️ Fri, Jul 25 (5–10 PM) & Sat, Jul 26 (11 AM–6 PM); Rain Date: Sun, Jul 27 A lively downtown celebration with live bands ( All Night Boogie , Funk You ), food trucks, craft beverages, artisan vendors, and a fun-packed “Wicked” Kids Hour. 🎟 Free; $10 suggested donation 🎷 Litchfield Jazz Festival – 30th Anniversary 📍 Litchfield 🗓️ Jul 25–27 A premier jazz gathering featuring top-tier talent, including the Emmet Cohen Trio at Friday’s Opening Gala and a mellow Sunday Jazz Brunch. 🎟 Tickets required; available online 🥒 Connecticut Pickle Festival 📍 Mohegan Sun, Uncasville 🗓️ Jul 25–27, 5–10 PM Daily Fifty-plus pickle varieties, pickle martinis, inflatable rides, live music, and even pickle jousting? Yes, please. A whimsical, briny celebration for all ages. 🎟 From $15; kids under 12 free 🇮🇹 Southington Italian‑American Festival 📍 Southington 🗓️ Jul 25–27 (Various Times) Three full days of Italian pride with classic food, a Friday night Elvis Tribute and fireworks, plus family fun, vendor markets, and a Sunday Mass and Scopa tournament. 🌍 Danbury International Festival 📍 CityCenter Danbury 🗓️ Sat, Jul 26 A one-day cultural celebration with international music, dance, food, art, and hands-on workshops—great for families seeking a worldly experience. 🎨 Hey Stamford! Food Festival 📍 Mill River Park, Stamford 🗓️ Jul 26–27 Part of Stamford’s summer series finale with headliners Busta Rhymes and Soulja Boy , amazing food trucks, beer garden, cooking demos, and tribute bands. 🖼️ Stamford Art Festival 📍 Harbor Point Park, Stamford 🗓️ Jul 26–27, 10 AM–5 PM Not to be confused with the food fest! This juried art show features regional and national artists displaying fine art, sculpture, and handcrafted items in a scenic outdoor setting. 🎭 Old Lyme Midsummer Concert 📍 Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme 🗓️ Fri, Jul 25, 7–9 PM Unwind by the Lieutenant River with a free evening concert surrounded by art, nature, and midsummer magic. 🎡 Quaker Farms Fireman’s Carnival 📍 Oxford High School, Oxford 🗓️ Jul 25–27, 6–10 PM A nostalgic New England carnival with rides, games, food, and local firehouse pride. Family-friendly and community-focused. 🐄 Lebanon Country Fair 📍 Lebanon Fairgrounds 🗓️ Jul 25–27, 3–11 PM Classic country fair vibes with agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, rides, animals, and comfort food galore. 🌊 Savin Rock Festival 📍 West Haven Green & Beach Area 🗓️ Jul 25–27, 5–10 PM This shoreline summer fest offers carnival rides, food trucks, live entertainment, vendors, and beachy family fun. A West Haven favorite! 💡 Tips & Insider Notes Parking: Arrive early for downtown events like Shelton, Stamford, and Danbury—lots fill fast. Tickets: Some events are free; others like the Pickle and Jazz Fests require advance tickets. Best for Families: Lebanon Country Fair, Quaker Farms Carnival, and Danbury Festival are ideal. Weather Watch: Some festivals have rain dates—check their social media or websites before heading out. Whether you're jazzing it up in Litchfield, raising a martini at the Pickle Fest, or dancing to global beats in Danbury, Connecticut’s festival scene is firing on all cylinders this weekend . Hit the road, follow the music, and don’t forget your appetite! Which fest are you hitting first? Let us know on socials. #CTSummerVibes