Summer in New England is a magical time, filled with a plethora of festivals, fairs, and special events that draw people from near and far. From the bustling city streets to the quaint coastal towns, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or just looking to soak in the community spirit, these events offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best of what New England has to offer.
Why You Should Attend These Events
Great Food: From fresh lobster in Maine to delicious fair treats at any of the festivals, these events are a food lover's paradise.
People Watching: Festivals are the perfect places to watch and meet people from all walks of life, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere.
Rides and Shopping: Enjoy thrilling rides at fairs and shop for unique crafts and souvenirs at various festivals.
Community Spirit: These events bring communities together, celebrating local culture, history, and traditions. Many of these festivals have been around for decades, fostering a strong sense of community pride.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, New England's summer festivals and fairs offer something for everyone. Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to create unforgettable memories this July and August.
July: Celebrate the Mid-Summer Festivities:
Ongoing now through 8/31
Tanglewood Music Festival
Where: 297 West Street Lenox, MA
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Info: One of the world’s most beloved music festivals, Tanglewood is the famed summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and its training academy, the Tanglewood Music Center, as well as the Boston Pops.
Friday, 7/5 to Sunday, 7/14 (if you miss out this year, plan ahead for their 11th year!)
Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival - Celebrating 10 years!
Where: Open gardens would be located on Cape Cod, from Provincetown to Woods Hole, MA
Cost: Private garden tours are $5 per person per garden. Different prices apply
Info: The Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival is an annual summer garden celebration, showcasing gardens and plants of all kinds across Cape Cod. This ten-day festival's main attractions are the daily tours of private gardens, each designed and maintained by the individual homeowners and carrying a unique charm.
Wednesday, 7/17 to Sunday, 7/21
Newport Dance Festival - Newport, RI
Where: Outdoor Stage on Lawn of the Great Friends Meeting House, 21 Farewell Street, Newport, RI
Cost Ticket prices vary
Info: Newport Contemporary Ballet presents the Newport Dance Festival on its festival stage on the lawn of the Great Friends Meeting House.
Tuesday, 7/9 to Thursday, 8/1
New Hampshire Music Festival
Where: various sites including Plymouth State University,Colby-Sawyer College and more
Cost: Vary per venue
Info: The New Hampshire Music Festival is a summer festival that honors the tradition of classical music while exploring new artistic paths. Our organization offers patrons an engaging, immersive festival experience by presenting world-class performances of symphonic, choral and chamber music.
Friday, 7/19 to Sunday, 7/21
20th Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival
Where: Revere, MA
Cost: Free
Info: The annual Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival is a feast for the eyes. Stroll along the beach viewing astounding sculptures crafted from sand, enjoy live entertainment, watch a fireworks display, and chow down on food from local vendors. It’ll give you a whole new perspective on the sandcastles of your childhood.
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Friday, 7/19 to Sunday, 7/21
Guilford Craft Expo 2024
Where: Guilford Town Green, 33 Whitfield Street, Guilford, CT
Cost: Adults $10, Seniors $9, Active Military, GAC Members, 16 yrs and younger FREE
Info:The Guilford Craft Expo is one of the longest running and most popular arts & crafting industry shows in the entire country. Come browse through the handcrafted jewelry, pottery, clothing, health & beauty goods, plus paintings, paper art, photography, and much more. Kids activities and food vendors on site.
Saturday, 7/20 to Sunday, 7/21
9th Annual Sandwich Summer Arts & Craft Festival
Where: Sandwich Middle High School Grounds, 365 Quaker Meetinghouse Road, E. Sandwich, MA
Cost: Free
Info: Prepare for a weekend of artistic marvels and culinary delights, showcasing the talents of over 75 artisans from across the nation, attendees can immerse themselves in a diverse array of American-made arts and crafts. This festival offers a culinary adventure for all palates.
Wednesday, 7/24 to Saturday, 7/27
Vernon’s Annual “Summer Days” Carnival
Where: Rockville High School, 70 Loveland Hill Road, Vernon, CT
Cost: Free admission and Free Parking
Info: The Food Court is cash only, there is an ATM on site. Wristbands will be available for unlimited rides. Tickets will also available for rides, each ride varies the amount of tickets needed, those can be purchased with cash or credit card. 100% of net proceeds benefit underprivileged children within the community,
Friday, 7/26 to Sunday, 7/28
64th Annual Lebanon Country Fair
Where: 122 Mack Road, Lebanon, CT
Cost: Adults: $10, Children 12& under: FREE, Senior Citizens: $9. All military with ID: Free, Season Pass: $25 for all 3 days.
Info: Get ready for: FIREWORKS!, Rides, Animals: Horse & Oxen Pulls, Cattle Shows, Goat Show, Sheep Show, Pony & Mini Pulls, Horse Show, Rabbits and Poultry – PLUS (back by popular demand) the Oxen vs. Horse Pull!, Games for Adults and Kids, Home & Garden Exhibits , Entertainment and FAIR FOOD!
Friday, 7/26 to Sunday, 7/28
Litchfield Jazz Festival 2024
Where: Tisch Auditorium and the Bourne Courtyard, Frederick Gunn School in Washington, CT
Cost: Buy tickets here
Info: Litchfield Performing Arts announces the 29th Annual Litchfield Jazz Festival, a three-day event celebrating some of the biggest names in jazz music.
Friday, 7/26 to Saturday, 7/27
Old Lyme Midsummer Festival
Where: Historic Old Lyme Village, Old Lyme, CT
Cost: Free
Info: The celebration of art, music, food, and family fun is back in Old Lyme, CT!
Saturday, 7/27 to Sunday, 7/28
9th Annual Cambridge Jazz Festival
Where: Danehy Park, 99 Sherman Street, Cambridge, MA
Cost: Free ... Ticket info here
Info: Relax to the smooth sounds of local jazz musicians at this annual two-day music festival. The festival grounds also include a pop-up food court, a jazz museum, a marketplace of local vendors, a beer garden, and comfortable spaces designed for seniors and children.
Saturday, 7/27 to Sunday, 7/28
12th Annual Brewster Summer Arts and Craft Festival
Where: Drummer Boy Park, Main Street, Route 6A, Brewster, MA
Cost: Free
Info: This esteemed event brings together over 100 booths of American-made arts and crafts, offering a treasure trove of creativity and craftsmanship that will captivate visitors of all ages, with an array of specialty foods that will tantalize your senses.
Tuesday, 7/30; Saturdays: 8/3, 8/17, 8/31, 9/21, 10/5 & 11/2
Waterfire Providence - WaterFire Lightings
Where: Providence, RI check site for locations for each event
Cost: Free
Info: WaterFire Providence is a public art event featuring over 80 braziers lit along downtown Providence's rivers, creating a mesmerizing display of firelight and music. Founded by Barnaby Evans in 1994, it attracts thousands of visitors with performances, food vendors, and cultural activities.
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Wednesday, 7/31 to Sunday, 8/4
Maine Lobster Festival
Where: Rockland’s Harbor Park, Rockland, ME
Cost: Free
Info: The Maine Lobster Festival is five days of fun and feasting on the fabulous coast of Maine! It all began at a gathering of a group of citizens and summer folk in March 1947, where a discussion arose as to what could be done about reviving the summer activities that Camden had prior to the war years. It was decided that having a marine festival of some sort would be appropriate. Having it become an annual affair was intentional from the beginning. The festival is held every year on the first weekend in August.
August: The Mid-Summer Festivities Continue:
Thursday, 8/1 to Sunday, 8/4
St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast
Where: North End, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: The St. Agrippina di Mineo Feast begins with a procession led by the children of the Saint Agrippina society and accented by music from Italian marching bands. From there you can enjoy live music, food games, and a famous tug-of-war match.
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August 2 - 4 2024, keep it in mind for next year!
Newport Jazz Festival - SOLD OUT
Friday, 8/2 to Sunday, 8/4
North Branford Poco (Potato and Corn) Festival
Where: 290 Forest Road, Northford, CT
Cost: Tickets for rides to be purchased
Info: Family oriented festival always the 1st weekend in August. Tractor pulls, fireworks, rides and more
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Saturday, 8/3 to Sunday, 8/4
9th Annual Chatham Summer Craft Festival
Where: Chatham Community Center Lawn, Main Street, Chatham, MA
Cost: Free
Info: Immerse yourself in a world of creativity and craftsmanship as 55 select artisans proudly showcase their American-made works. The Chatham Summer Craft Festival welcomes visitors with free admission and guarantees a memorable experience, rain or shine. They believe in creating a welcoming atmosphere for all, including our furry friends, so friendly pets on a leash are more than welcome to join in the festivities.
Friday, 8/9 to Sunday, 8/11
The Bolton Fair 2024
Where: The Fairgrounds at Lancaster, 318 Seven Bridge Road, Lancaster, MA
Cost: Buy tickets
Info: A celebration of heritage, culture and community - providing wholesome fun, great entertainment, friendly competition and educational experiences for the whole family!
The Bolton Fair is where friends, agriculture, education and creativity unite.
Friday, 8/9 to Sunday, 8/11
Madonna Della Cava Feast
Where: North End, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: The North End’s Madonna Della Cava Feast is centered on a procession of a cloth banner decorated with the Madonna’s image. The tradition was brought to Boston by first generation Italian-Americans. In addition to this ceremony you can listen to live music, try authentic Italian foods, and shop local vendors.
Saturday, 8/10
12th Annual Cape Cod Food Truck and Craft Beer Festival
Where: Cape Cod Fairgrounds, 1220 Nathan Ellis Highway, Route 151, East Falmouth, MA
Cost: $5.00 online in advance, then $10 at the door.
Info: 30 of the region’s most popular food trucks will gather on Cape Cod for this epic festival. While you sample different foods, sip on brews from more than 25 craft breweries, play lawn games, listen to live music, and shop a local artisans market.
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Saturday, 8/10 to Sunday, 8/11
Nauset Summer Craft Festival
Where: Nauset Regional Middle School Lawn, 70 Route 28, Orleans, MA
Cost: Free
Info: Featuring over 75 booths of meticulously selected, American-made arts and crafts, this festival promises a diverse array of artistic treasures to explore. Craft enthusiasts will delight in live demonstrations showcasing the creative process behind various artisanal techniques, while live musical entertainment sets the stage for a truly memorable summertime experience.
Sunday 8/11
Chinatown August Moon Festival
Where: Boston's Chinatown, Harrison and Beach Street, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: The August Moon Festival dates back to 771 BCE in Chinese history, celebrating the harvesting of rice under a full moon. At Boston’s celebration, watch cultural performances, learn Chinese calligraphy, and shop at a marketplace of small businesses.
Thursday, 8/15 to Sunday, 8/18
North End Fisherman's Feast
Where: North End, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: The North End’s oldest continuously running Italian festival is not one to miss. Every night for four days fishermen are celebrated with live bands, Italian food and craft vendors, and various traditional ceremonies blessing the fishermen and their waters.
Friday, 8/16 to Sunday, 8/25
Marshfield Fair
Where: Marshfield Fairgrounds, 140 Main Street, Marshfield, MA
Cost: Ticket Info
Info: Music, entertainment exhibits, 4-H, arts and crafts, … ride, games, food and more! Plenty of activities for all ages.
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Saturday, 8/17
Buzzards Bay Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival at Maritime Academy
Where: 101 Academy Drive, Bourne, MA
Cost: $5.00 online in advance, then $10 at the door.
Info: Prepare your taste buds and raise your glasses for the 1st Annual Buzzards Bay Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival!
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Saturday, 8/17
Milford Annual Oyster Festival
Where: Downtown Milford, CT
Cost: Free
Info: The Milford Oyster Festival will have 30,000 oysters and will be celebrating 50 years of FUN with a great line up of bands representing a wide range of musical genres. Plus, entertainment, children’s programs and more. National Geographic voted The Milford Oyster Festival the BEST Food Festival in Connecticut.
Saturday, 8/17 to Sunday, 8/18
The 14th Annual African Festival of Boston
Where: Boston Common, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: Celebrating innovation in Africa and through the diaspora, the African Festival highlights up-and-coming musicians and performers in a rotating stage throughout the day. You can also shop at a marketplace of authentic African goods and eat traditional dishes from food vendors.
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Saturday, 8/17 to Sunday, 8/18
43rd Annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival
Where: Stage Fort Park, Hough Avenue, Gloucester
Cost: Free
Info: Prepare to immerse yourself in a captivating world of color, flavor, and music as the historic Stage Fort Park along Gloucester Harbor comes alive for the highly anticipated 43rd Annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival.
Sunday, 8/18
10th Annual Portsmouth Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival at Cisco Brewers
Where: Cisco Brewers Portsmouth, 35 Corporate Drive, Portsmouth, NH
Cost: $5.00 online in advance, then $10 at the door.
Info: More than 23 of Portsmouth’s most popular food trucks will gather in one place for this summer festival, along with beloved local craft breweries. Enjoy the eats, play lawn games, listen to live music, and more.
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Thursday, 8/22 to Sunday, 8/25
Saint Anthony's Feast
Where: North End, Boston, MA
Cost: Free
Info: Saint Anthony’s Feast in Boston began as an Italian and North End tradition in 1919 and has won over the hearts of Bostonians. The highly anticipated annual festival lights up Hanover Street with decorations, a parade, live performances, and more than 100 push carts selling authentic Italian eats.
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Thursday, 8/22 to Sunday, 8/25
Brooklyn Fair
Where: 15 Fairgrounds Road, Brooklyn, CT
Cost: Admission Costs and Carnival Info
Info: The Milford Oyster Festival will have 30,000 oysters and will be celebrating 50 years of FUN with a great line up of bands representing a wide range of musical genres. Plus, entertainment, children’s programs and more. National Geographic voted The Milford Oyster Festival the BEST Food Festival in Connecticut.
Saturday, 8/24 to Monday, 9/2
Windsor Fair
Where: 82 Ridge Road, Windsor, ME
Cost: Admission prices for each day; Senior Citizen days - August 26th & August 29th; Veterans day - August 29th; Half-Price price day - August 28th.
Info: From daily shows to a large animal exhibit and with more than 50 acrs of amusement… enjoy a fun day here!
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