A Grand Finale to Summer: The 48th Norwalk Oyster Festival Returns September 11-13

Make the most of summer’s last hurrah at the Norwalk Oyster Festival, taking place September 11–13 at Veterans Park (42 Seaview Ave., Norwalk). Hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association and presented by Mohegan Sun Online Casino, this festival is more than just a celebration—it's the largest annual fundraiser supporting the continuing preservation and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. 

Tickets are available online and at the gate, with all entertainment included in the admission price of $20 for adults and $10 for children 5-12. Families will appreciate that children ages 12 and under are free on Sunday with a paying adult, while discounted ride wristbands at $35 (available Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) keep the thrills accessible for all ages. For those looking to indulge, the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Lounge returns with an upgraded, upscale retreat in the heart of the festival. For just $50 per day, festivalgoers 21+ will score the VIP Lounge plus festival admission, comfy seating, three adult drinks, exclusive giveaways, and delicious bites including grilled oysters, hanger steak, corn salad, and smoked salt potatoes. It’s a refined way to experience the festival—equal parts relaxation and fun. For combination tickets https://www.seaport.org/mohegan-sun-online-casino-lounge 

The Xfinity Main Stage) is bringing three nights of can’t-miss entertainment—starting with the fierce, glam-metal legend Lita Ford on Friday, September 11, at 8 pm. Known for hits like “Kiss Me Deadly” and the powerful duet “Close My Eyes Forever” with Ozzy Osbourne, her presence anchors opening night with grit, nostalgia, and undeniable star power. Parmalee takes the Xfinity Main Stage on Saturday, September 12 at 8:30 p.m. With more than 1.6 billion on-demand streams and six No. 1 hits, 

Parmalee has redefined modern country music with powerful storytelling and a polished crossover sound. Expect a setlist stacked with fan favorites like “Carolina,” “Close Your Eyes,” and “Already Callin’ You Mine alongside newer chart-toppers including “Take My Name,” “Girl in Mine,” and “Cowgirl,” a track that recently made history as one of the longest-running No. 1 songs in over a decade on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. 

On Sunday, September 13, the festival shifts into high gear one last time as JUMP: America’s Van Halen Experience closes out the weekend at 4 p.m. The band delivers a high-octane tribute to Van Halen’s David Lee Roth era—complete with faithful renditions, theatrical flair, and a setlist that dives beyond the biggest hits to the delight of true fans. 

Beyond the Xfinity Main Stage, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is packed with interactive entertainment for all ages. The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show brings the world of logging to life. Watch as World-Class and World-Champion Lumberjacks go head-to-head in epic battles of muscle vs. machine, showcasing skills like logrolling, axe throwing, and springboard chopping that have been wowing audiences for over 35 years! 

The Ready Go Dog Show, as seen on FOX, ESPN, and the Today Show, features a cast of rescued canine athletes that steal the show with their amazing stunts and boundless energy. After the show, meet the pups in person, making the experience even more memorable. 

Food lovers can take a culinary journey around the world without leaving the fairgrounds at the International Food Court. Feast on everything from New England seafood favorites, including buttery lobster rolls, creamy clam chowder, and freshly shucked oysters, to Italian specialties, Southern soul food, Latin-inspired dishes, amazing sweets, and much more. 

Wander through the New England Crafts Village, where artisans and makers showcase their work. From handcrafted jewelry and fine art to ceramics and wearable pieces, each booth offers something unique—perfect for discovering a one-of-a-kind treasure. 

At its heart, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is more than an end-of-summer tradition—it’s a celebration with impact, supporting education, preservation, and the region’s maritime legacy, Sheffield Island Lighthouse. 

 Festival Essentials 

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for kids 5-12. Children 12 and under are Free with an adult paid ticket on Sunday. The daily festival combination ticket provides entrance to the festival and the Mohegan Sun Online Casino Lounge for 21+ for $50 per day. Tickets are available online at https://www.seaport.org/norwalk-oyster-festival or at the gate. 

Combination tickets are available at https://www.seaport.org/mohegan-sun-online-casino-lounge. 

Discounted business ticket packages are also available in blocks of 100 or more at 50% off general admission, and available at https://www.seaport.org/business-ticket-packages. 

 Festival hours are Friday, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For FAQs, including parking and shuttle information, visit https://www.seaport.org/faqs_norwalkoysterfestival 

 About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

 Now in its 48th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for music, a wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village 

 About Mohegan Sun Online Casino 

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Parmalee, Lita Ford and Jump: America’s Van Halen Experience at the 48th Norwalk Oyster Festival September 11-13

The Norwalk Seaport Association has unveiled its 2026 entertainment lineup, running September 11 through September 13, 2026. The 48th annual three-day festival blends seaside charm with arena-level performances. The weekend kicks off Friday night with a jolt of rock history. At 8 p.m. on September 11, Lita Ford—the groundbreaking guitarist and former Runaways member—brings her unmistakable brand of glam metal to Norwalk. Known for hits like “Kiss Me Deadly” and the powerful duet “Close My Eyes Forever” with Ozzy Osbourne, Ford’s career spans decades, accolades, and a permanent place in rock’s cultural DNA. Her presence anchors opening night with grit, nostalgia, and undeniable star power.

Taking over the Xfinity Main Stage on Saturday at 8:30 p.m., September 12, is multi-platinum country group Parmalee—a band that has steadily climbed from regional favorite to national powerhouse. With more than 1.6 billion on-demand streams and six No. 1 hits, Parmalee has helped redefine modern country music, threading together classic storytelling with a polished, crossover-ready sound.  Expect a setlist stacked with fan favorites like “Carolina,” “Close Your Eyes,” and “Already Callin’ You Mine alongside newer chart-toppers including “Take My Name,” “Girl in Mine,” and “Cowgirl,” a track that recently made history as one of the longest-running No. 1 songs by a band on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in over a decade. Recent releases include the deeply personal “How Do I Let You Go” and their current single, “God Knew Better.”

On Sunday, the festival shifts into high gear one last time as JUMP: America’s Van Halen Experience closes out the weekend. Taking the Xfinity Main Stage at 4 p.m. on September 13, the band delivers a high-octane tribute to Van Halen’s David Lee Roth era—complete with faithful renditions, theatrical flair, and a setlist that dives beyond the biggest hits into deep-cut territory for true fans.

 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is about much more than headlining performers; it’s an experience the whole family can enjoy. On Sunday, Kids Day makes it especially fun for families, with children 12 and under admitted free with a paying adult. Many of the festival’s shows are included with your ticket and scheduled throughout the day, so you can catch your favorites without missing a moment. And, if your family loves rides, an unlimited ride wristband is available on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

As Norwalk Oyster Festival Chairman, Mike Reilly puts it, “The Norwalk Oyster Festival brings it all together – arena-sized live bands, a craft village, rides, great food, and family entertainment, all packed into one unforgettable three-day weekend.”

This year’s presenting sponsor, Mohegan Sun Online Casino, is once again raising the bar with a VIP experience, bringing a touch of resort-level service to the festival. “Our partnership with the Norwalk Seaport Association continues to be an amazing relationship for our business and our presence in the community,” said Colin Mulhern, Event Manager, Mohegan Sun Online Casino.

 

For tickets and full event details, visit https://www.seaport.org/norwalkoysterfestival_entertainment

Pirates Invade Sheffield Island A Swashbuckling Summer Adventure Awaits -July 18 & 19, 2026

 Yo, ho, ho—and a barrel of fun is headed for Sheffield Island Lighthouse when the annual Pirates Weekend & Cruise sets sail on July 18 and 19, 2026. Hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association, this wildly popular event turns a scenic island getaway into a full-on high-seas escapade for the whole family, complete with treasure hunts, sea chanteys, and enough swashbuckling spirit to make your inner captain shout, “Ahoy!”

The adventure begins at 90 Water Street in South Norwalk, where guests board the ferry and cruise across the sparkling waters of Norwalk Harbor. Along the way, you’ll pass charming islands, historic lighthouses, and sweeping coastal views—basically, a scenic prelude to your pirate destiny. Ferries depart at 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 1:00 p.m. So, arrive early—these boats wait for no matey! Secure your spot with Pirates Weekend Ferry Tickets at seaport.org/events and set sail before the crew swabs the deck without you!

A Pirate’s Playground

Once ashore, Sheffield Island turns delightfully rogue. The day comes alive with the legendary Bawdy Buccaneers—a professional troupe of pirate re-enactors who bring history to life with just the right amount of mischief. Between treasure hunts on the private beach, interactive pirate games, sea chanteys, storytelling, and dramatic swordplay, there’s no shortage of high-seas hijinks. Add in tall tales of danger, mystery, and the open sea, and you’ve got yourself a day fit for the fiercest pirate and the mistress of the high seas. 

Best of all, every bit of this eyebrow-raising adventure is included with your ferry ticket. And while the pirates are having their fun, the island still has plenty to teach: Pirates Weekend is also a chance to step into maritime history. Guests are invited to tour the lighthouse, uncover the legacy of Sheffield Island’s light keepers, and learn why preserving Long Island Sound matters. This popular event is part history lesson, part pirate party, and entirely unforgettable.  

About the Norwalk Seaport Association

Founded in 1978, the Norwalk Seaport Association is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s rich maritime heritage. Through educational programs, lighthouse tours, and unforgettable on-the-water experiences, the organization connects visitors of all ages to the history, environment, and beauty of the Norwalk Islands. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to strengthen the connection between past, present, and future through preservation, education, and community engagement.

Docktails & Oysters A Seaside Celebration of Flavor & Tradition Hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association June 20, 2026

 Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 20, 2026, and prepare for an unforgettable evening on the water. From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Norwalk Seaport Association, in partnership with fourth-generation oyster farmers Norm Bloom and Son, invites you to its signature summer celebration — Docktails and Oysters. Set against the stunning waterfront backdrop of the historic Norm Bloom and Son dock in Norwalk, this one-of-a-kind event blends fresh-from-the-Sound oysters, live music, local flavors, and maritime tradition into a celebration like no other.

 

Beyond the food and festivities, Docktails & Oysters supports a meaningful cause. Every ticket purchased benefits the Norwalk Seaport Association’s educational programming and the ongoing restoration and maintenance of Sheffield Island Lighthouse. “For guests who have sailed to the lighthouse aboard one of the Association’s popular cruises, this Sheffield Island–inspired gathering offers another way to connect with the organization’s mission in a relaxed and festive setting,” said Rick McQuaid, President of the Seaport Association.

 

This event is also a celebration of Norwalk’s deep-rooted oyster-farming heritage. The renowned Copps Island Oysters cultivated by Norm Bloom and Son are nurtured under the dock and then planted in the sandy bottom of Long Island Sound. The time-honored farming techniques used today have been practiced for centuries. The result? Oysters prized worldwide for their sweet, briny flavor and plump, tender meat.

 

If you’ve never tasted oysters literally fresh off the boat, this is your moment. Watch skilled shuckers expertly open each oyster before your eyes — setting them on trays with fresh lemons and a variety of delicious sauces. It’s culinary theater at its finest! Not an oyster lover? No problem. The evening will also feature a delicious spread of stationed appetizers catered by Seaside Sliders, along with craft beer and wine to complement the coastal cuisine.

 

With Long Island Sound as your backdrop and live music filling the early summer air, Docktails & Oysters blends fun, flavor, and philanthropy. It’s a chance to reconnect with friends, meet new faces, and celebrate the working waterfront that defines Norwalk’s character. Attendance is limited to just 200 guests, and the event sells out each year. Tickets are available online at https://www.seaport.org/docktailsandoysters2026.

 

For those looking to toast summer while supporting a cherished Connecticut landmark, Docktails & Oysters promises an evening that is as meaningful as it is memorable.

 

In the Summer of 2026 Sail Into History: Explore Greens Ledge & Sheffield Island Lighthouses

 

Norwalk, CT - May 20, 2026 - Ready to experience maritime history like never before? This summer, the Norwalk Seaport Association and the Greens Ledge Light Preservation Society invite you aboard a truly one-of-a-kind, five-hour lighthouse adventure—an immersive journey to two iconic beacons of New England history. Mark your calendars for three exclusive Saturdays: June 6, July 11, and August 8. Departing at 8:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s dock on 90 Water Street, in Norwalk, and returning by 1:30 p.m. This unforgettable cruise blends history, legend, architecture, and breathtaking coastal views into a single spectacular experience. Reserve your tickets at seaport.org.

Greens Ledge Lighthouse — Legends & Rare Architecture 

 The journey begins with a scenic cruise through Norwalk Harbor, setting your sights on one of America’s rarest maritime treasures: Greens Ledge Light. Built in 1902, this historic “Spark Plug” lighthouse is one of only 33 surviving examples in the United States, making it a true bucket-list destination for maritime enthusiasts.

Following an extensive restoration, Greens Ledge Light is now open to the public, offering a unique opportunity to explore its storied halls. Visitors can discover the Beacon Room, which houses the still active automated light, as well as the Trombos Research Center and the historic Maclean Watch Room. The outdoor deck, furnished with Adirondack chairs, provides sweeping views of the coastline—perfect for soaking in the harbor’s natural beauty. Steeped in rich history and legend—including captivating tales of pirates and buried treasure—Greens Ledge Light invites guests to experience history as living storytelling, creating unforgettable memories on the Long Island Sound. 

Sheffield Island Lighthouse — Victorian Grandeur 

 Next, the boat charts a course for the iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a Victorian-era landmark built in 1868. At this National Historic Site, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a living tapestry of maritime history replete with pirates, smugglers, and bootleggers! Climb the lighthouse tower for breathtaking, panoramic views that extend all the way to the Manhattan skyline. Inside, thoughtfully restored rooms showcase the authentic details of 19th-century lighthouse living, offering a glimpse into the past.

Guests can unwind and enjoy a leisurely picnic in a shaded seaside pavilion, taking in the unparalleled waterfront scenery. This stop blends history, exploration, and relaxation, providing the perfect setting to wander, reflect, and soak in the unique coastal charm on this private island. This one-of-a-kind cruise is perfect for solo explorers, families, or groups of friends seeking a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. 

Make It a Full Summer of Seafaring

Experience more than just the lighthouse cruises to Sheffield Island and Greens Ledge this season with the Seaport Association’s diverse lineup of seasonal activities. Throughout the 2026 season, guests can embark on daily and weekends cruises to Sheffield Island or unwind on relaxing Sunset Cruises through Norwalk Harbor. For those looking to indulge in coastal cuisine, Clambakes on Tuesdays in July and August on Sheffield Island offer a delicious New England feast. Families and adventurers of all ages can join the fun at the swashbuckling Pirates Day festivities on July 18 & 19—perfect for every scallywag at heart. Explore the full season lineup at seaport.org

Spring on the Sound: Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 Cruises Promise Unforgettable Cruises for Birders, Sunset Chasers, and Families

 When spring arrives in Connecticut, it brings with it the start of something truly special: the Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 cruise season! Whether you’re searching for colorful seabirds, the perfect sunset, or a magical family outing to a historic lighthouse, this lineup delivers the ultimate maritime experience. 

Bird-Watching Cruises: Witness Nature’s Most Magical Migration 

Calling all nature lovers! Every Sunday in May (May 10, 17, 24, and 31), early risers can embark on guided bird-watching cruises departing at 7:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s dock at 90 Water Street in Norwalk. As you glide along Long Island Sound—a crucial stop on the Atlantic Flyway—an expert guide will help you spot migrating and nesting birds, including highlights at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Expect to see everything from herring gulls to great black-backed gulls up close! Don’t forget: Bring your camera and 

Sunset Cruises: Pure Magic on the Water 

If you prefer your adventures with a touch of romance or relaxation, the Seaport Association’s Sunset Cruises are for you. Set sail from May 20–24 and May 27–31 at 6:30 p.m. for a two-hour journey past Norwalk’s islands and lighthouses—including the famed Peck’s, Green Ledge, and Sheffield Island Light. Bring your favorite snacks and beverages (plastic cups, please!) and soak in the golden hour as the captain’s mate shares tales of the harbor’s rich history. Cruises continue daily and on weekends through August, promising plenty of chances to toast the sunset with friends and family. 

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursions: Explore History & Nature

For a truly immersive outing, join a Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursion on May 23, 24, 30, or 31 (with more dates through August!). These three-hour tours offer a narrated cruise on a spacious ferry across Norwalk Harbor, views of three lighthouses, and a full hour exploring Sheffield Island. Enjoy a guided lighthouse tour, picnic at the pavilion or beach, and stroll along our private beach—a perfect family adventure blending history, nature, and fun. 

 The Norwalk Seaport Association has been Connecticut’s gateway to the Sound since 1978, founded by locals passionate about preserving maritime history and natural beauty. Their cruises offer more than just a ride—they’re an invitation to connect with Connecticut’s coastal heritage, wildlife, and community spirit. 

Secure your tickets today at http://www.seaport.org and make this spring unforgettable. 

About the Seaport Association 

Founded in 1978, the Norwalk Seaport Association is dedicated to enriching lives through cultural, historical, and environmental experiences. The Association educates all ages about the importance of safeguarding our maritime legacy and natural treasures.

Norwalk Seaport Association to Launch 2026 Season at Spacecat Brewing Company

Norwalk Seaport Association to Launch 2026 Season at Spacecat Brewing Company, April 14, 2026 The Norwalk Seaport Association is kicking off its 2026 season in style with a not-to-be-missed bash at Spacecat Brewing Company on Tuesday, April 14; from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join fellow community members at 57 Chestnut Street, Norwalk, for an evening that blends exceptional craft beverages, flavorful bites, and maritime pride into one unforgettable evening. Best of all, every sip supports one of Connecticut’s most treasured landmarks, the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse. 

Guests can look forward to a thoughtfully curated tasting experience featuring small-batch craft brews, hard ciders, and wine, paired with chef-driven appetizers prepared by Harbor Harvest. Each pairing has been carefully selected to complement Spacecat Brewery’s innovative beverage lineup, offering a dynamic mix of flavors designed to delight both casual sippers and craft connoisseurs alike. 

Beyond the food and drink, the evening offers an inside look at what’s ahead for the Association in 2026. Get a preview of new initiatives; special cruise information, Lighthouse renovations, and plans for the Norwalk Oyster Festival. Discover how to get involved and help continue the Association’s mission to educate, preserve, and celebrate Norwalk’s maritime heritage, a tradition since 1978. 

Tickets are $40 per person and include two drink vouchers (beer, wine, or hard cider) along with appetizers. With only 100 tickets available, advance registration is required. Tickets may be purchased online, or by calling the Seaport Office at 203-838-9444. Proceeds from the evening directly support the upkeep and preservation of the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse.