Seasonal & Holidays
New Summer Festival Launched To Replace Sailfest In New London
Sailfest may be gone, but a new summer festival along with the biggest fireworks show in the state is expected to attract tens of thousands.
NEW LONDON, CT — The city will launch a new summer festival, Celebrate New London, on July 12, featuring a full day of live music, food, and family activities throughout the downtown area. The event will conclude with the Mashantucket Pequot Thames River Fireworks Extravaganza.
The news comes after Sailfest was canceled earlier this year. The event, which for 45 years brought thousands to New London, was canceled due to budget constraints.
Related: New London's Sailfest Canceled After 45 Years Running
Celebrate New London is a collaboration between the City of New London, the New London Cultural District, Garde Arts Center, and local businesses. Two main stages at Parade Plaza and Custom House Pier will host performances, with additional live music at bars, restaurants, and shops throughout downtown.
“Our aim with ‘Celebrate New London’ is to showcase everything that makes New London such a vibrant and special community,” Rich Martin, chair of the New London Cultural District, said in a statement.
Lower State Street will host a pop-up artisan village with artists, makers, and vendors. Food trucks will also line the area, serving an expected large crowd leading up to the fireworks.
“For more than 30 years, the Mashantucket Pequot Fireworks Extravaganza has been a cherished family tradition, and the highlight of the summer for the thousands of visitors who come together to celebrate, connect, and create unforgettable memories," Rodney Butler, chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, said in a statement. "It’s an honor and a joy to be part of something that means so much to so many.”
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribe has sponsored the fireworks show since 1993. The display, launched from a barge donated by Mohawk Northeast, is considered the largest in Connecticut and among the biggest in New England, according to the statement. Music will be synchronized to the show and broadcast on Big 100.9 FM.
“We’re excited to celebrate the people and entrepreneurs who make New London the region’s center for culture,” said Mayor Michael Passero.
City officials in New London and Groton are preparing for tens of thousands of spectators. Groton’s viewing areas include Fort Griswold and locations along Thames Street.
The festival continues a tradition dating back to the city’s first summer event in 1980 and the first fireworks display in 1981.
More information, including road closures, parking, and viewing locations, is available at CelebrateNewLondon.com.
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