New London Folk Festival

New London Folk Festival brings a full day of live music, local talent, and community celebration to Hygienic Art Park for its inaugural event. Featuring 15 acts across two stages, the festival showcases a diverse lineup of folk, Americana, singer-songwriter, and roots-inspired performers while creating a gathering place for music lovers in the heart of downtown New London.

Now free to attend, the all-day festival coincides with New London’s annual fireworks celebration, allowing visitors to enjoy live performances throughout the afternoon and evening before taking a break for one of SE Connecticut’s most anticipated summer traditions. With a covered amphitheater, shaded areas, and a beer-garden atmosphere, Hygienic Art Park provides an ideal setting for spending the day discovering new artists and enjoying local music.

Organizers hope the first New London Folk Festival becomes a new annual tradition for the city. Whether you’re a longtime folk fan or simply looking for a unique way to spend a summer Saturday, the event offers an opportunity to experience a wide variety of performers in one place while celebrating New London’s growing arts and music scene.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026

Location: Hygienic Art Park
New London, CT

Admission: FREE

Gates Open: 3:00 p.m.

Festival Highlights

• 15 musical acts
• Two performance stages
• Covered amphitheater
• Beer garden atmosphere
• Ample shade
• Come-and-go access throughout the day
• Fireworks celebration nearby

Performance Schedule

3:30 p.m. – Frank Critelli & Steve Elci (Songwriter Stage)

4:00 p.m. – Undercover Cameo (Main Stage)

4:45 p.m. – Anne Marie Menta & Bruce Thorndike (Songwriter Stage)

5:15 p.m. – Brian Gore & The Tender Fritters (Main Stage)

6:00 p.m. – Mike Iula & Hugh Birdsall (Songwriter Stage)

6:30 p.m. – The Rivergods (Main Stage)

7:15 p.m. – American Elm & Lauren Agnelli (Songwriter Stage)

7:45 p.m. – Goodnight Moonshine (Main Stage)

8:45 p.m. – Sarah Mac & John Fries featuring Corina Malbaurn (Songwriter Stage)

9:15 p.m. (Approx.) – Fireworks Break

Following Fireworks – The Hope Collective (Main Stage)

Additional Information

• First annual festival
• Presented in conjunction with citywide celebrations and fireworks
• Family-friendly event
• Food and beverages available on-site
• Visitors may enter and leave the festival throughout the day