The Top Seven Ways to Have Family Fun @ Norwalk Oyster Festival September 10th 11th and 12th

For three days every September the Norwalk Oyster Festival brings families, friends, and children together with dazzling entertainment, music, magic, food, rides, and games. “We have strived to keep all adult and kids entertainment free with the price of admission this year. On Sunday, we are offering free admission for kids 12 and under with one paying adult admission because we know how many families are looking forward to the festival. We are also offering heavily discounted unlimited ride wristbands for everyone this year on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. “First County Bank is the presenting sponsor that has helped to make the Norwalk Oyster Festival a Fairfield County tradition and the highly anticipated event of the summer season that it is today," said Reilly. 

There are many reasons why so many families have made the Norwalk Oyster Festival a family tradition and after experiencing these family-friendly activities this year, it's sure to become one of yours! 

Wrist Bands For Everyone! 

Carnival rides are one of the most exciting and thrilling things you can do at the Norwalk Oyster Festival. A favorite among children and adults alike, there are rides for people of all ages. A popular highlight on Saturday and Sunday is the specially priced wristband at $30 each available for unlimited rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Everyone. 

 Sunday is Family Day & A Visit with Santa

Sunday, September 12th, is Family Day all day when one child 5-12 gets in Free with one paid adult admission. A new Seaport experience on Sunday is the chance for kids to visit Santa Claus, something that they might not have had the chance to do last December. Another highlight is the non-stop music of local bands, which we have all missed and can't wait to welcome back. Bands performing on Sunday on the Main Stage include Fairfield 9 at noon, Green Eyed Lady at 1:30 p.m., What Up Funk at 3 p.m., Tangled Vine at 4:30 p.m., and Sacred Fire at 6 p.m. 

The Top Five Ways to Have Fun @ Kids Cove 

This year the whole family will enjoy the Ready Go Dog Show that packs plenty of oohs and ahs with its combination of comedy, family fun, and amazing high-flying canine athletes. The show consists of rescued dogs and features champion Frisbee dogs, thrill-seeking diving dogs, and the highest box jump dog in the world! A highlight for the audience is the chance to meet and greet the four-legged stars of this thrilling show after their riveting performance. The Ready Go Dog Show has been seen on the FOX game show, Game of Talents, ESPN, the Today Show and Friends, and many others! 

New this year at Kids Cove is the chance for kids to pose in special dioramas, at no charge, with their favorite fantasy characters from princesses and princes to superheroes, making this a perfect photo opportunity for parents, creating memories to last a lifetime. 

Everyone will enjoy the antics of JJ the Clown, a family favorite of folks from around the country. Kids will be entranced as they watch JJ's stuffed animals transform into real animals. JJ's laugh-out-loud “fantastic” routines are filled with hilarious clown comedy and silliness that will have children rolling with non-stop laughter! JJ is multi-talented, an award-winning clown, as well as a certified balloon artist, and face painter. His animal house brings the house down every time! 

New this year is the awe-inspiring Pirate show! Scallywags of all ages will step into a world of swashbuckling rogues, dastardly villains, wicked wenches, and beautiful mermaids as this electrifying act takes center stage. This high wire Pirate's act even has an enormous pirate ship – and much more! Perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages, the Pirates will have everyone on the edge of their seats because it includes the performance of elegant aerial tricks from high in the air! 

If this isn't enough fun, there are carnival games, including pint-sized games for the little ones, face-painting, balloon making, plus cotton candy, popcorn, candied apples, and many other goodies. 

About First County Bank - Presenting Sponsor 

First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, Conn. for 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 16 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $1.7 billion, and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces 2020 award. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. 

Festival Hours 

Friday, Sept. 10, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 11, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 12 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Tickets 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is held at Veteran’s Park; adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT. Admission for adults is $12 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Senior tickets are $10 on all three days. Children 5-12 years old are $6. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seaport.org. Sunday is Family Day when one child, 5-12 gets in free with each paid adult on this day only. 

Parking & Shuttles 

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at these locations: 9/10 – Norwalk Community College & Calf Pasture Beach (5:30pm - 11:30pm) 9/11 – Norwalk Community College, Calf Pasture Beach, and Norwalk City Hall (10:30am - 11:30pm) 9/12 – Norwalk Community College, Calf Pasture Beach, and Norwalk City Hall (10:30am - 11:30pm) Additional fee parking is available at Webster Street parking lot, Haviland Street parking lot, Maritime Aquarium garage, and Iron Works garage. All within walking distance to the festival. 

Covid Protocols 

In accordance with CT Department of Public Health guidelines, all guests -- vaccinated and unvaccinated -- are required to wear masks on all Norwalk Oyster Festival Shuttle buses. Walkways and high traffic areas of the festival will be spaced apart to encourage distancing and there are more open-air dining tents available. All vendors, dining tents, rides will have hand sanitizers and hand washing stations. Pre-ticketed guests will be given fast-track admission to the festival. 

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse and its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org or call (203) 838-9444.

Back in September, the 43rd Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Norwalk Oyster Festival presented by First County Bank is back! There is no better way to enjoy the end of the summer, than at the three-day event taking place on Friday, September 10^th through Sunday, September 12^th. “Located at Veterans Park along the Norwalk Harbor, the new layout of the grounds makes social distancing easier. The music, entertainment, and Kids Cove activities are free with admission, making it fun for the whole family,” says Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. “For 14 years First County Bank has supported us, helping to make the Norwalk Oyster Festival a longtime Fairfield County tradition."

 

The Music

The 2021 Norwalk Oyster Festival has live music from dozens of bands on multiple stages throughout the weekend and features a variety of crowd-pleasing entertainment. “The Oyster Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer. All the music and entertainment is free with the price of the ticket making it economical for the entire family,” says Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival kicks off with the music of the multi-talented Eliot Lewis, a Norwalk native that is a member of Hall and Oates, one of the most famous duos in the world that have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The next performer, Steelheart, originally from Norwalk, lights up the stage at 8:30 p.m. Get ready to rock with Steelheart, a legendary musical force, celebrating 30 years of entertainment in 2021 and considered by many to be one of the hottest, hippest live shows around the world.

On Saturday afternoon, at 2 p.m. get ready to escape to “Margaritaville” at the Norwalk Oyster Festival with the always-popular Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band - the ultimate beach party tribute to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band. Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band plugs in and lights up the stage at 2 p.m.! 

Saturday night’s headliner is Mike DelGuidice, hand-picked and hired by Billy Joel, and Big Shot make the stage come alive with their music and will have you dancing up a storm. DelGuidice is a world-class vocalist and can sing just about anything! Get ready to party to chart-topping hit after, in an astounding high-energy show, that is amazingly free with admission! 

On Sunday, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is celebrating a homegrown musical extravaganza of non-stop performances by professional local and regional bands including Sacred Fire, Fairfield 9, Green-Eyed Lady, Tangled Vine, What Up Funk, and many more. Enjoy live music and specular performances, dance together, unwind and have fun as you listen to a variety of musicians on multiple stages. When you aren’t grooving to the tunes, there is a wide variety of food, arts, crafts, rides, and entertainment that will keep you busy.

For the Whole Family 

The Seaport Association has increased family entertainment by leaps and bounds this year! There will be different shows in different areas of the park running at different times to make sure that everyone gets a chance to enjoy all the top-notch entertainment that is free with the price of admission!  The  Kids Cove Character Cavalcade and the Dog Show are produced by Connecticut’s own Center Ring Productions that have been spreading smiles nationwide for more than 50 years. Ready Go Dog Show and Character Cavalcade. 

This year the whole family will enjoy the Ready Go Dog Show that packs plenty of oohs and ahhs with its combination of comedy, family fun, and amazing high-flying canine athletes. The show consists of rescued dogs and features champion Frisbee dogs, thrill-seeking diving dogs, and the highest box jump dog in the world! A highlight for the audience is the chance to meet and greet the four-legged stars of this thrilling show after their riveting performance. 

The Ready Go Dog Show has been seen on the FOX game show, Game of Talents, ESPN, the Today Show and Friends, and many others! New this year at Kids Cove is the chance for kids to pose in special dioramas, at no charge, with their favorite fantasy characters from princesses and princes to superheroes, making this a perfect photo opportunity for parents, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Everyone will enjoy the antics of JJ the Clown, a family favorite of folks from around the country. Kids will be entranced as they watch JJ's stuffed animals transform into real animals. JJ's laugh-out-loud “fantastic” routines are filled with hilarious clown comedy and silliness that will have children rolling with non-stop laughter! JJ is multi-talented, an award-winning clown, as well as a certified balloon artist, and face painter. His animal house brings the house down every time! 

New this year is the thrilling Pirate show! Scallywags of all ages will step into a world of swashbuckling rogues, dastardly villains, and wicked wenches as the Pirate's high wire act replete with a pirate ship takes center stage. This act, perfect for thrill-seekers of all ages will have everyone on the edge of their seats! This energetic act is perfect for all ages because it includes the performance of elegant aerial tricks from high in the air! 

New this year at Kids Cove is the chance for kids to pose in special dioramas, at no charge, with their favorite fantasy characters from princesses and princes to superheroes, making this a perfect photo opportunity for parents, creating memories to last a lifetime. If this isn't enough fun, there are carnival games, including pint-sized games for the little ones, face-painting, balloon making, plus cotton candy, popcorn, candied apples, and many other goodies. 

Rides and Wristbands 

Carnival rides are one of the most exciting and thrilling things you can do at the Norwalk Oyster Festival. A favorite among children and adults alike, there are rides for people of all ages. A popular highlight on Saturday and Sunday is the specially priced wristband @ $30 each available for unlimited rides from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for everyone. 

Sunday is Family Day & the Chance to Meet Santa 

Sunday, September 12th is Family Day all day when one child 5-12 gets in Free with one paid adult admission. A new highlight is a chance for kids to visit Santa Claus, something that they might not have had the chance to do last December.  Games, rides, face painting, and pint-sized carnival games, plus cotton candy, popcorn, candied apples, and much more can also be found at Kids Cove.

Arts & Crafts Galore

If you like to shop, head to the Arts and Crafts area where there’re more than 100 fine artists and crafters that display whimsical as well as practical items that appeal to all tastes, budgets, and ages. Jewelry, paintings, pottery, sculpture, clothing, home décor, and wearable art are just some of the treasures to be found here. At the Seaport Tent, learn about Norwalk’s oystering history and browse specialty items on sale celebrating the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. 

For the Foodies 

One of the best things about going to the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the wide variety of delicious food that you can indulge in! After exploring the fairgrounds head to the International Food Court that dishes up everything from Mexican, Columbian, and Italian to funnel cakes, cotton candy, and, of course, oysters fresh off the boat, authentic New England lobster dinners, and fresh lobster rolls. Some of this culinary fare is prepared by dozens of local nonprofit organizations allowing them to raise funds for their charitable causes. And, if you have worked up a thirst, no worries head to the craft beer tent that offers more than forty beers. Whether you are craving a salty and savory meal, a sugary treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, or an afternoon or evening snack, you’re guaranteed to find a favorite fair food at the Norwalk Oyster Festival. 

Location

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is held at Veteran’s Park; adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT. 

Admission

Admission for adults is $12, seniors $10, and children (5-12) $6 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seaport.org. Sunday is Family Day when one child, 5-12 gets in free with each paid adult. Ticket holders will have fast-track admission to the festival.

Festival Hours: Friday, Sept. 10, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 11, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 12 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Parking & Shuttles

Free parking and shuttle buses are available at these locations:

• 9/10 – Norwalk Community College & Calf Pasture Beach (5:30pm - 11:30pm)
• 9/11 – Norwalk Community College, Calf Pasture Beach, and Norwalk City Hall (10:30am - 11:30pm)
• 9/12 – Norwalk Community College, Calf Pasture Beach, and Norwalk City Hall (10:30am - 11:30pm)

Additional fee parking at Webster Street parking lot, Haviland Street parking lot, Maritime Aquarium garage, and Iron Works garage. All within walking distance to the festival.

Covid Protocols

 In accordance with CT Department of Public Health guidelines, all guests -- vaccinated and unvaccinated -- are required to wear masks on all Norwalk Oyster Festival Shuttle buses. Walkways and high traffic areas of the festival will be spaced apart to encourage distancing and more open-air dining tents available. All vendors, dining tents, rides will have hand sanitizers and handwashing stations. Pre-ticketed guests will be given fast-track admission to the festival. 

About First County Bank- Presenting Sponsor

First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, Conn for 170 years, is an independent mutal company bank with 16 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $1.7 billion, and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces 2020 award. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.  

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse and its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit http://www.seaport.org or call (203) 838-9444.

Experience a New England Clam Bake On Sheffield Island Every Tuesday in August

New England clambakes are one of the pleasures of summer with their classic combination of lobster and clams fresh from the ocean, corn on the cob, and potatoes. The Norwalk Seaport Association's New England Clambake on Sheffield Island is one of the best places to experience this time-honored seafood feast!

On Tuesdays, August 3, 10,17, 24, and 31 the Norwalk Seaport Association is offering the foodie event of the summer, a Clambake on Sheffield Island - at prices that won't break the bank! Get ready to board the Seaport's ferry at 6 p.m. and head to Sheffield Island. The vessel only holds 49 people, so this culinary adventure is delightfully fun and not overcrowded! Reaching the private island, tour the historic ten-room Sheffield Island Lighthouse that is on the National Register of Historic Places, see the outline of Manhattan and the beautiful coast of Connecticut through an antique telescope and take a walk along a nature trail that is part of the Stewart B. McKinney Nature Sanctuary. 

If you have worked up an appetite, no worries, the Norwalk Seaport Association is serving up a feast that will be enjoyed in a beautiful wooden pavilion with picnic tables, fans, lighting, and, best of all, unbeatable views! 

The Seaport Association offers three packages a clambake package @ $75 that offers a selection of chicken, salmon rib eye, pork, or vegetarian choices, and a lobster bake package at $85 whose main entree is a 1.5 lb. lobster with all the fixings. There are even ale Carte additions like Copps Island Oysters, fresh off the boat from Norwalk, littleneck clams, and a jumbo shrimp cocktail. Don't forget to BYOB so that you can enjoy this feast sipping your favorite wine or beer as you watch the sun sink into the horizon. Reservations must be made in advance. For more information and to buy your tickets click here.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Celebrate the Music of Billy Joel with Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot and More @Norwalk Oyster Festival 2021 September 10, 11 and 12, 2021

 Three days of fun, food, and dazzling free entertainment on multiple stages, plus a myriad of special events for families and friends, from nine to ninety marks just some of the activities planned for the 2021 Norwalk Oyster Festival hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association on Friday, September 10, Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12, 2021, at the 35-acre Veterans Memorial Park in Norwalk. For tickets and information https://www.seaport.org/norwalk-oyster-festival

“We are so happy to be able to welcome people back to this year's Norwalk Oyster Festival, an event that has brought families and friends together for 43 years. Our volunteers have been working around the clock to make this year’s festival extra special because we know people have been looking forward to it since last year. The 43rd Norwalk Oyster Festival is packed with value-added extras this year especially when you consider that all the entertainment including the headliners' Mike DelGuidice who performs with Billy Joel and Big Shot, Eliot Lewis from Hall and Oates, and Live at Daryl’s House, nationally and internationally acclaimed SteelHeart, the Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Band, and many other top-notch bands are included in the ticket price,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. For tickets click https://www.seaport.org. 

Friday, September 10, Entertainment Line Up

 

Headliner, September 10 - SteelHeart - Nationally and Internationally Acclaimed @ 8:30 p.m.

The headliner of the evening, SteelHeart, originally from Norwalk, takes the stage, at 8:30 p.m. This nationally and internationally acclaimed rock band is celebrating the 30th anniversary of their self-titled debut album. SteelHeart released in 1989. This album catapulted this band into immediate commercial success reaching #40 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album quickly hit platinum status internationally, and gold domestically. “She’s Gone,” a soulful power ballad hit #1 on the international charts staying there for 17 weeks. The band's second single, “I’ll Never Let You Go (Angel Eyes),” reached #14 on the Billboard charts. In 2001, lead singer, Miljenko Matijevic provided all of the vocals for Mark Wahlberg’s character in the hit movie Rock Star. SteelHeart has released five studio albums and is working on a compilation album to celebrate their 30 years of globetrotting, and high octane, live performances.

Originally from Norwalk Celebrating 30 Years!

Friday, September 10, Opening Act, Eliot Lewis - Of Hall and Oates & Live @ Daryl’s House @ 7 p.m.

Friday night kicks off at 7 p.m. with the music of multi-instrumentalist Eliot Lewis, a Norwalk native who is a member of Hall and Oates, one of the most famous duos in the world inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lewis is also a solo performer that has consistently released his unique brand of guitar featured rock and soul. He is best known as the only musician to appear on every episode of the hugely popular “Live from Daryl’s House” show. Lewis has also performed with many popular artists such as Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, Joe Walsh of the Eagles, Booker T, Jewel, and Todd Rundgren, to name a few. Daryl Hall summarizes Lewis’s talent best, “Eliot is a musician who can do it all, great singer, songwriter, and guitarist. He rocks and he’s got, soul. No one does it quite like him.”  

Saturday, September 11, 2021 - Entertainment Line Up

 

Headliner, Saturday, September 11– Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel & More @ 8:30 pm 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is one of New England's most iconic festivals which is why Mike DelGuidice, a multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist touring with Rock N Roll Legend, Billy Joel is taking a night off from his touring schedule to perform with his band, Big Shot on Sept. 11 at 8:30 pm. Mike DelGuidice was handpicked and hired by Billy Joel himself. After Billy Joel heard Mike sing, he hired him, literally on the spot to be in his band. Mike is probably one of the few artists around where the front guy of the band is actually in the band of the artist his band covers! While on tour with Billy Joel, DelGuidice has shared the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Bryan Adams, Tony Bennett, Paul Simon, John Mayer, John Mellencamp, and Adam Levine, to name a few.

Mike DelGuidice Handpicked by Billy Joel

DelGuidice is an extraordinarily talented musician. In addition to his eclectic original songs, he will astonish you will renditions of songs by Elton John, Van Morrison, Billy Joel, Paul McCartney, Marc Cohn, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, John Denver, Sting, James Taylor, Chicago, and many others. DelGuidice is a world-class vocalist and can sing just about anything. DelGuidice’s band, Big Shot includes Tommy Byrnes, Billy Joel's guitarist, drummer Chris Milillo who performed with the Stone Temple Pilots and others, Nick Dimichino, on bass, who most recently played with Nine Days, and, Michael Jewell, one of the countries most accomplished keyboardists who performed with Barbara Streisand, and Michael Bolton,  

 

In addition to touring with Billy Joel and his band, Big Shot, DelGuidice has released two albums, "My Street," and "Miller Place," and is working on a third. Mike also scored the theme song, "Ordinary Guy," for the sitcom, "Kevin Can Wait," starring actor/comedian, Kevin James.

DelGuidice and Big Shot packs hit after chart-topping hit in an amazingly high-energy show that leaves audiences wanting more. “We are thrilled that DelGuidice is taking a night off from touring with Billy Joel and performing at this years’ Oyster Festival. DelGuidice's stature as a well-known worldwide performer makes his band highly sought after because they are such crowd-pleasers. After all, Billy Joel himself handpicked DelGuidice. We are thrilled that he will be rocking the 43rd Oyster Festival on Saturday night," says Mike Reilly, Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We would also, once again, like to acknowledge that First County Bank is our presenting sponsor for the tenth year in a row.”

It is always 5 p.m. somewhere with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band!

Saturday, September 11 - Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band  @ 2 p.m.

On Saturday afternoon get ready to escape to “Margaretaville” at the Norwalk Oyster Festival with the always-popular Jimmy Kenny and the Pirates Beach Band - the ultimate beach party tribute to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band. Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band plugs in and lights up the stage at 2 p.m...after all, it is almost 5 o’clock somewhere! The good-time vibe of this band will put you in an endless summer state of mind. So put on your best “Parrothead” gear - your favorite Hawaiian shirt, straw hat, and flip-flops, grab some food and drinks from one of our nearby vendors and get ready to sing and dance along to some of the best of Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and the Zac Brown Band plus a variety of country favorites, summer pop, reggae, and tropical classics.

Sunday, September 12 - Entertainment Line Up The Best of Connecticut & More!

 

Local music is the heart and soul of every big city and small community. Every musician starts off somewhere, and that somewhere is usually local. Art and music in all its iterations thrive on interaction, and with all concerts shuttered last year, most folks were left without experiencing the excitement of live entertainment. "We know that people have missed going out to see their favorite regional and local bands, which is why we have organized a series of non-stop performances by Connecticut and tri-state area bands on Sunday," said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We are happy to give our local musicians center stage to welcome them back to the entertainment industry at this year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival."

Norwalk Seaport Association Welcomes Summer Campers

 

New this summer, the Norwalk Seaport Association is now welcoming regional organizations that offer summer camps for children to come and visit Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse for an unparalleled maritime excursion. Preservation of the island and lighthouse as well as offering educational opportunities for children are two of the founding principles that the Norwalk Seaport Association has been founded on. 

If organizations and summer camps are looking for a new camp activity that will delight and engage kids of all ages, they should consider renting the Norwalk Seaport Association’s vessel the C.J. Toth for an excursion. The Norwalk Seaport Association has developed two options for camp educators to choose from, both offer an educational and rewarding experience at affordable price points. 

A two-hour harbor cruise is scenic, educational, and fun. The vessel will take children out into the outer Norwalk Harbor passing three historic lighthouses and Norwalk’s necklace of islands. The Seaport Association will provide information on each lighthouse as an aide to educators as well as historical information on the area. Cruises can also be narrated by request. On the cruise, children will also see sea birds and oyster boats that will round out this educational eco-experience. 

The second option is a cruise to Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Here, children will delve into local history as they explore the island, visit the ten-room lighthouse, and walk the trails of the adjoining National Wildlife Refuge where they will have the chance to learn about the environment and birdlife of Long Island Sound. Camp counselors will be provided with historical information on the lighthouse to make for a more engaging experience and tours will be offered. In addition, activities on the island planned by educators could include a picnic, scavenger hunt, or a variety of summer lawn games. 

The Norwalk Seaport Association’s vessel can carry up to 45 socially distanced passengers and is available for this charter on Mondays and Tuesdays, during the day. The two-hour harbor cruise is $500, and the three-and-a-half-hour cruise to Sheffield Island is $750. To book call the Norwalk Seaport Association at 203-838-9444. 

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Go on a Seabird Safari with Norwalk Seaport Association in June, 2021

For millennia, seabirds have made Long Island Sound off the coast of Norwalk, Connecticut their home. Birders and nature enthusiasts have spotted waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds along with migrant birds of all types in this rich natural environment. As the third smallest state in the country, amazingly, Connecticut boasts 430 different bird species; and one of the state’s birding “hotspots” are the Norwalk Islands.

On Sundays in June, on the 6, 13, and 20, the Norwalk Seaport Association is offering a specially curated Bird Cruise around the Norwalk Islands from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. These two-and-a-half-hour cruises will be led by Will Schneck, a passionate bird enthusiast that combines superb birding skills with an astonishing command of bird biology and habits. As a member of the esteemed Connecticut Young Birders Club, he will share his knowledge and expertise about local seabirds and their behavior. Schneck is an excellent communicator, has a great sense of humor, and is tireless in helping others spot the birds and wildlife of Long Island Sound.

Year after year participants on this special cruise agree that every cruise is different because you can never anticipate what bird species might fly your way, making this excursion an adventure in itself! Watching birds in action from the water, whether they are nesting or on the hunt for food is an exhilarating experience. Among the types of birds, you may see on this eco-adventure cruise are nest sites and nest colonies of ospreys, and long-legged egrets with their graceful S-curved necks and long dagger-like bills, as well as playful American oystercatchers, herons, terns, gulls, and cormorants, to name a few.

A unique highlight of this cruise is the chance to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Here you will see a variety of habitats that support nesting and wading birds. This spot is known for its small population of herring and great black-backed gulls that nest along Sheffield Island's rocky shoreline. The importance of the Norwalk Islands to wildlife, especially migratory birds is enormous, and the special Bird Cruises hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association give nature enthusiasts the chance to spot these magnificent seabirds up close with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide.

Bird Cruise Details

Passengers are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the 8 a.m. departure. The vessel leaves from the Seaport Dock that is adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and Water Streets in South Norwalk. Parking is available at the adjacent lot or at the Norwalk Parking Garage. Tickets are available online in advance by clicking here and are $30 for adults and $25 for children in addition to a small ticketing fee. All reservations must be made in advance, reserve early because these popular excursions sell out fast. Make sure you include your email when reserving your ticket. If the tour is canceled due to inclement weather the Norwalk Seaport Association will contact you via your email. Make sure to bring sunscreen, your camera, binoculars, and a mask in order to get the most out of this popular eco-cruise.

The Norwalk Seaport Association is also offering cruises to Sheffield Island on Tuesday- Sunday and Sunset cruises on Wednesday- Friday evenings departing at 6:30 p.m. For times and tickets click here. The Norwalk Seaport Association is also offering the vessel for private events and parties with friends, family, and associates, for details email info@seaport.org or call 203-838-9444.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Summer, 2021 Get Ready to Cruise to Sheffield Island Starting Memorial Day Weekend

The Norwalk Seaport Association is once again offering cruises to Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse this summer. “In the summer of 2020, out of an abundance of caution, we decided not to offer cruises to the island,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. “In 2021, with a robust vaccine program and restrictions loosening up, we decided to offer cruises that stop at Sheffield Island. This in-person experience is outdoors that makes it easy to social distance. We know people really missed going to the island last year, so this summer we decided to get back into the swing of things by providing our passengers with our wonderful Sheffield Island experience.” 

If you are a bird lover with a checklist of bird species that you want to see on Long Island Sound, don’t miss the Norwalk Seaport Association’s specially guided bird cruises on Saturday, May 22, and Sunday, May 23. The vessel will depart at 10 a.m. and return at 12:30 p.m. Bird cruises are also being offered on Sunday, June 6, 13, and 20; with the vessel departing at 8 a.m. and returning at 10:30 a.m. The beauty of the bird cruises is that each one is a unique adventure because you can’t anticipate what bird species you will see on each excursion. For tickets click here.

This year, the first Sunset cruise of the season will be on Wednesday, May 26 beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sunset Cruises will be offered Wednesdays – Sunday through September. There is something so special about seeing the sunset on Long Island Sound as you glide through Norwalk Harbor passing lighthouses and oysters boats while sipping a glass of wine. The Seaport’s vessel is roomy and comfortable with plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air of the Sound. Passengers are encouraged to BYOB and snacks, making this sunset cruise the perfect way to enjoy the summer of 2021. To reserve a spot click here. If you miss this weekend’s Sunset Cruises, no worries, the Seaport Association is offering them June – September, Wednesday through Sunday at 6:30 p.m. 

The fun continues with a series of cruises stopping at Sheffield Island on Saturday, May 29, at 11 a.m. and at 3 p.m., Sunday, May 30, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., and Monday, May 31, at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The cruise includes an on-the-water adventure to Sheffield Island, a tour of the historic 151-year-old lighthouse, time to picnic in a beautifully situated wooden pavilion, look for shells on the beach, and to walk along the Nature Trail that is part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. If the day is clear, the New York City skyline can be seen. An added bonus is the new telescope installed by the Seaport Association that is free to use and affords fabulous views of the Connecticut coastline. The cruise experience is approximately three hours long. 

All reservations must be made online in advance; masks are required while traveling on the Ferry. To make a reservation, click here https://www.eventbrite.com/o/norwalk-seaport-association-32255433505 The boat leaves from the Sheffield Island Dock located at the corner of North Street and Washington Street in South Norwalk. Parking is available in the parking lot and at the adjacent Norwalk Maritime Center Garage. Be sure to wear comfortable, close-toed shoes and bring your mask. 

The fun continues all summer long with cruises to Sheffield Island on Tuesday & Wednesday at 11 a.m. in July and August, on Thursday and Friday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. in July and August, and on Saturday and Sundays, May through September at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunset cruises will be offered May - September, Wednesday through Sunday at 6:30 p.m. The Seaport is also offering private charters. For complete information visit the Seaport's website or call 203-838-9444. 

About the Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

Seaport Getting Ready for Summer 2021

The Seaport Association in Norwalk is busy getting ready for the summer 2021, season.  April is the time of year when Seaport Association volunteers are busy getting their vessel, docks, and Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse ready for their opening beginning the last weekend in May. This year, the Association will be offering two-hour harbor cruises as well as a cruise to Sheffield Island and its historic lighthouse.

Caryn Davis from her new book Celebrating Our Coastline and Waterways

The Association is also busy organizing this year's 43rd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival that will take place on Friday, September 10, Saturday, September 11, and Sunday, September 12. The Association's new website offers forms for organizations and businesses that want to participate in this popular and highly anticipated event. Forms for food, arts and crafts, merchandising, marketing, and non-profit organizations as well as sponsorship opportunities are all online and can be found by clicking here.

The Seaport Association is also busy organizing a special outdoor in-person, "Seaport Style" celebration that is scheduled to take place this summer. This fundraising event, which is open to the public, promises to be a "boat-load" of fun with lots of fun, food, drinks, and auction items. "We have a lot to be grateful for especially our many supporters, friends, and volunteers," said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association.

The Seaport Association has also just announced that it has finalized the details for the Annual Golf Tournament that will be held on October 4, 2021, at the Silvermine Golf Club in Norwalk. The golf tournament will help support the programs for education and restoration of the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. It will include a friendly competition, prizes, raffles, food, and a gift package for every player. For more information click here.