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
