WSO's 37th Annual Picnic & Pops!

It's our 37th Annual Picnic & Pops, one of the best afternoons of the summer. Bring your lawn chair a decadent picnic and your bubbly or bev - and sit back and enjoy a terrific late summer afternoon.

its a great line up and 'cast'.... See Below!

Grab your tickets and more info here:

https://www.waterburysymphony.org/.../it-s-wso-s-picnic...

Weather Location: Nonnewaug High School in Woodbury! While in the last 5 years it has only happened once, yet, the good news.... if the weather is awful, there will be no better place to enjoy the afternoon!

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This festive summer tradition invites families and friends to pack a picnic, a blanket, and enjoy an evening of exceptional live music. Under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Maestro Leif Bjaland, the WSO will perform an uplifting program celebrating the songs and sounds that have shaped America's musical heritage.

Connecticut-born soprano Katie Nicole Weiser, praised by Connecticut Magazine as "golden voiced," returns as a WSO audience favorite, performing alongside the orchestra's dynamic wind and brass ensemble. Concertmaster Alyce Cognetta Bertz (violin) and Gary Bertz (guitar) will also make special featured appearances.

Whether audiences are swaying to the cool rhythms of Brubeck, enjoying timeless Broadway classics, or celebrating stirring patriotic favorites, this year's concert offers an unforgettable musical journey through the sounds that have defined America for generations.

"We are thrilled to be back in Hollow Park celebrating America's love affair with songs," said Maestro Leif Bjaland. "With folk melodies like Shenandoah, Broadway ballads such as What I Did for Love, and rousing tributes to our Armed Forces, we will be performing music that is timeless, uplifting and patriotic—music that has been woven into the fabric of our nation for the past 250 years. It is an evening designed to bring people together through the joy of live music."

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, pack a picnic, and enjoy an evening of exceptional music in one of Connecticut's most beautiful outdoor concert settings. General admission lawn seating allows families and friends to create their own perfect summer concert experience.

In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved to Nonnewaug High School in Woodbury.

Calendar Listing
Sunday, July 12, 2026 5:30 p.m.

Waterbury Symphony Orchestra
37th Annual Picnic & Pops
"What The World Needs Now"
Hollow Park, Woodbury, CT
Inclement Weather Location: Nonnewaug High School, Woodbury, CT
Gates Open: 4:30 p.m.
Free Accessible Parking

Tickets:
$30 in advance*
$35 at the gate
$10 Students (with valid Student ID when purchased through the Box Office)
Children 15 and under are FREE
Purchase Tickets Online:
waterburysymphony.org
Telephone Ticket Orders:
WSO / Palace Box Office
203-346-2000
*Standard booking fees apply.

Featuring
Waterbury Symphony Orchestra Pops Ensemble
Maestro Leif Bjaland, Music Director & Conductor
Katie Nicole Weiser, soprano
Special appearances by
Alyce Cognetta Bertz, violin and Gary Bertz, guitar