Eastern Connecticut's Must Visit Fairs & Festivals

Experience the magic of our region at a variety of captivating fairs and festivals happening late summer right through fall here in Eastern CT! From arts and crafts to historical charm to thrilling entertainment, there’s something for every interest and age. Don’t miss out on these exciting events where you can explore artisan markets, indulge in delicious treats, enjoy live performances, and compete in fun contests! Mark your calendars for some unforgettable fun. Here’s what’s in store for you:

Mystic Outdoor Arts Festival (August 12 & 13)

For the 65th year in a row, Mystic is dominating the art scene with their beloved Outdoor Arts Festival, sponsored by the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce. The oldest festival of its kind in the north, this festival earns a special spot on everyone’s summer bucket list. Along the river in gorgeous downtown Mystic, discover arts, crafts and so much more.

·      Art: Whether it is acrylics or woodworking, watercolor or sculpture, there will be a special art piece for everyone! Immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal town through the arts, with over 200 artists and 2 miles of vendors lining the streets. Come see why this festival attracts thousands of visitors each year across the country to see and shop the breathtaking pieces.

·      Family-Friendly: Whether your little one is a budding Picasso or not, there will be plenty of activities for children to enjoy! They will be kept busy by various arts and crafts as well as a Children’s Art Park, located in the Mystic Seaport Shipyard. So, bring your whole family for an outing in beautiful Mystic.

·      Entertainment: For the second year in a row, there will be a Performing Arts Stage at the Mystic Seaport Museum! The program will be from 4:00 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. and feature local and regional artists, performing dance, musical numbers, and theater. Come experience the thrill of the performing arts at the Mystic Outdoor Arts Festival! For info, visit: https://www.mysticchamber.org/art-festival/

163rd Annual Brooklyn Fair

Looking for something a little further from the shore and a little more rural? Don’t miss out on venturing out to the small, peaceful farm town of Brooklyn. Their town will be hosting their fair this year from Thursday to Sunday, August 24-27. This annual event offers a classic midway atmosphere with thrilling carnival rides, nostalgic foods like cotton candy, french fries, kettle corn, and ice cream, and must-have, delectable deep-fried treats. Shop to your heart’s content at various vendors selling everything from home-made novelties to agricultural essentials. The real star of Brooklyn Fair though is its entertainment, with three stages and agricultural shows happening all weekend. A variety of big-name country musical acts to a local, diverse range of artists will be performing each day; the best part is that it’s all free with admission! The fun always continues with daily fair contests, so bring a competitive spirit to participate in or watch the numerous competitions, from veggie car racing to cattle contests. You can also learn more about the local farming and historical scene at the Home & Garden building and country store and museum where there’ll be viewing exhibits featuring fresh produce, stunning arts and crafts, and fascinating antiques. Needless to stay, this fair is one the whole family will want to come to! To check out this year’s entertainment schedule at: http://brooklynfair.org/.

162nd Annual Woodstock Fair

Wrapping up summer and just in time to celebrate Labor Day weekend is the town of Woodstock’s fair, happening Friday through Monday, September 1-4! Experience non-stop entertainment with two stages featuring over 40 acts that will perform music, comedy, magic, and martial arts. Off the stage and on the grounds will also be wood/metal sculpting exhibitions, a one-man band playing, live statues roaming the alleys and over 18 cattle shows in the barns! Enjoy the highly anticipated horse shows and mesmerizing livestock displays that bring you into the day-in-the-life of a rancher! More fast-paced activities beyond visiting the range include races and competitions for pumpkin decorating, coloring, cooking, and flower arranging. As the fun-filled activities work up your appetite, you can also choose from the 36 food vendors that cater to every diet and palette. What could be better? To learn more about the fair’s admission and hours, go to: https://www.woodstockfair.com/.

The 25th Annual Connecticut Renaissance Faire

If you’re looking for a fair that’s unlike all the rest, step back in time and immerse yourself in a unique journey at the 25th Annual Connecticut Renaissance Faire. This faire is on Saturday and Sunday, September 2-3, from 10:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. in Lebanon. This event brings a blend of entertainment, shopping, and delicious delights in the enchanting atmosphere of the Renaissance era. Be captivated by the animated shows featuring over 20 performers that will display LARPing, classic musical and theatrical performances, creative improv, and mind-bending magic. See how things used to be before advanced technology with role-play cooking and medical demonstrations. The excitement continues as you cheer on jousting knights and marvel at the cosplayers embracing the spirit of the Renaissance! To top it all off, the marketplace boasts 17 food and drink vendors that are sure to have you feasting like a king or queen. Costumes are welcome, but not required. All one needs is their trusty noble to embark on this adventure! To learn more about the activities, community, and entertainment line-up, visit at: https://www.ctfaire.com/.

And don’t forget to share your special moments with us on social media using the hashtags #VisitEasternCT and #CTVisit!