Wolcott Fair, Mystic Art Fest, Hamlet Under The Stars Highlight Connecticut’s August 8–10 Weekend

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut is rolling into the second weekend of August with a packed calendar full of fine art, family fun, historic flair, and even a touch of the Bard. Whether you're in the mood for fried dough at a classic country fair, a scenic historical boat ride, or live performances along the coast, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the dog days of summer. Here’s your roundup of must-see events for the weekend of August 8–10 across the Nutmeg State.

Get Your Fair Fix in Wolcott

Start the weekend with some old-fashioned fun at the Wolcott Country Fair, running Friday through Sunday. One of the largest agricultural fairs in the state, this three-day celebration has it all: carnival rides, truck pulls, live music, a demolition derby, livestock shows, and more fried food than your doctor would recommend. Don’t miss the fireworks show Friday night or the tractor pulls that draw cheering crowds all weekend long. Get the full schedule.

Mystic Becomes an Outdoor Museum

The coastal town of Mystic transforms into a vibrant open-air gallery this Saturday and Sunday with the 67th Mystic Outdoor Art Festival, Connecticut’s oldest and largest art festival. More than 200 artists from across the country will line the streets with everything from paintings and pottery to jewelry and sculpture. Admission is free, and the views of the Mystic River aren’t bad either. Explore the festival.

Bonus: Live Performances on the Garde Arts Center Stage

As part of the Mystic Art Fest, stop by the Garde Arts Center Performing Arts Stage in Mystic River Park on Saturday for a lineup of music, dance, and live entertainment presented by local and regional performers. Think of it as a soundtrack to your artistic stroll.

Hike, Picnic, Repeat

Looking for something a little more laid back? Bring the whole crew to the Family Hike and Picnic at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic on Friday, Aug. 8. The gentle walk through the woods is perfect for little legs, and the staff provides nature activities and picnic ideas. Reserve your spot.

Nature Meets Music at I-Park

On Saturday, head to East Haddam for August Open Trails + Music, a monthly event at I-Park where visitors can explore miles of artist-designed trails, outdoor installations, and—this weekend—live music scattered across the landscape. It’s art and nature in harmony, and it’s one of Connecticut’s best-kept cultural secrets. Grab tickets, they're free.

Cruise Into the Gilded Age

Step back in time with the Gilded Age on the Thames Historical Boat Tour in New London on Sunday, Aug. 10. This narrated cruise explores the opulent mansions, steamboat ports, and wealthy summer homes that once dotted the Thames River during the late 19th century. It’s part history lesson, part scenic escape, and 100 percent Connecticut charm.

To Be or Not to Be… Outdoors

Wethersfield is channeling Shakespeare under the stars this week with performances of Hamlet, running through Aug. 16. The production is part of the town’s summer arts programming and offers a unique twist on the classic tragedy—with the added bonus of a warm summer breeze and no ticket required. Just bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in on the Keeney Memorial Center lawn for an evening of betrayal, monologues, and ghostly intrigue. Admission is free.

Art Indoors, Too

For those who prefer their art with air conditioning, don’t miss “Likeness and Light” exhibit at the Geary Gallery in Darien by Ridgefield artist Steve Wolf, on display through Aug. 16. The collection features luminous oil portraits and landscapes that celebrate light in all its forms. It’s a quiet but compelling stop for art lovers looking to escape the heat.

Whether you’re taking in world-class art by the sea, cheering on tractors at the fairgrounds, or getting lost in Shakespeare’s Denmark, this weekend in Connecticut is all about soaking up summer before it slips away.