Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Celebrate the End of Summer in Style at the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Make the most of summer’s last hurrah at the Norwalk Oyster Festival, taking place September 5–7, at Veterans Park (42 Seaview Ave., Norwalk). Hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association and presented by Mohegan Sun Online Casino, this vibrant festival is more than just a celebration—it's the largest annual fundraiser supporting the preservation and restoration of the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a true Connecticut maritime icon. With tickets available on Eventbrite and at the gate, this festival offers exceptional value, especially with all entertainment included in the price of admission and free entry for children 12 and under on Sunday with a paying adult, making it one of the most family-friendly events around.  

Norwalk Oyster Festival, Chairman Mike Reilly says it best: “This year’s entertainment lineup is the best value around. We’re bringing arena-sized bands to the Oyster Festival in addition to nationally acclaimed family entertainment, all included with admission to the festival. “It’s a tradition that we’re proud of,” adds Reilly, “and the last big event of the summer at a beautiful seaside venue.”


A Star-Studded Music Lineup

This year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival is turning up the volume with an unforgettable lineup that’s sure to have you dancing all weekend long! From national recording artists on the Optimum Main Stage to regional favorites under the Abbey Tent, music takes center stage. Music lovers are in for a treat with this year’s impressive entertainment roster. Chart-toppers Parmalee, the most-played group on Country Radio in 2022 and 2023, will headline Saturday night on the Optimum Main Stage. Their high-energy performance will feature fan favorites like “Carolina”, “Close Your Eyes”, and their latest single “Cowgirl.” The musical excitement kicks off Friday night with Rock Country Nights, headlined by Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band, the ultimate tribute band to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band. The weekend wraps up on a high note with VOYAGE, the nation’s premier Journey tribute band, performing fan favorites like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms.”


Introducing the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Lounge

This year, the Mohegan Sun Online Casino is unveiling its exclusive VIP Lounge — a luxurious, casino-inspired escape right in the heart of the festival. For just $50 per day, guests aged 21+ can enjoy all-day access to plush seating, three complimentary adult beverages, and a selection of tasty bites. But the VIP perks don’t stop there. Lounge guests will also be treated to exclusive giveaways, premium swag, and the thrilling opportunity to win $10K–$15K  in the daily jackpot, drawn every night at 11 p.m. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the festival in luxe comfort, the VIP Lounge is your passport to an unforgettable experience. One-day passes are available for September 5, 6, and 7, so grab yours online or at the gate. As Colin Mulhern, Event Manager for Mohegan Sun Online Casino, puts it: “We’re proud and excited to bring our world-class Mohegan Sun hospitality to the festival grounds.”


Unforgettable Family Fun: Lumberjacks & Leaping Dogs!

The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is packed with laughter, action, and jaw-dropping feats that bring the world of logging to life. Watch as burly lumberjacks go head-to-head in epic battles of muscle vs. machine, showcasing skills like log rolling, axe throwing, and springboard chopping. From the razor-sharp Misery Whip crosscut saw to dragster-speed chainsaws, this high-energy show blends tradition with modern-day excitement—and it’s been wowing audiences across the globe for over 33 years!


 The Ready Go Dog Show takes entertainment to new heights—literally! Featuring a cast of rescued canine athletes, this high-flying, tail-wagging performance combines comedy, talent, and heart in one unforgettable package. Watch frisbee-catching, high-jumping, water-diving dogs steal the show with their amazing stunts and boundless energy. These pups do it all with passion, and after the show, you can even meet the stars during a special "meet n’ greet." As seen on FOX, ESPN, and The Today Show, the Ready Go Dog Show is paws-down one of the most exciting family-friendly events around!


Savor Global Flavors & Shop Local Artistry

Food lovers, get ready for a culinary journey around the world—without ever leaving town. Indulge in a vibrant menu that spans continents, alongside classic New England seafood favorites, including buttery lobster, creamy clam chowder, and freshly shucked oysters delivered straight from local waters


If you love to shop and explore one-of-a-kind finds, don’t miss the Arts and Crafts area,

where talented artists and crafters showcase everything from whimsical trinkets to practical pieces.

Whether you're on the hunt for handmade jewelry, eye-catching paintings, stunning pottery,

or wearable art, there’s something here to match every style and budget.


Festival Essentials

Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids 5-12. Children 12 and under are Free with an adult paid ticket on Sunday, and children under 5 are free every day.  On Friday, September 5,  the festival hours are 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 6, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 7, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets for the festival and for the Mohegan Sun VIP Tent are available online and at the gate.  Click here for ticket information.  Shuttles are available from Norwalk Community College, Norwalk City Hall, and Calf Pasture Beach.  Fee parking is available at Webster Street Parking Lot, Haviland Street Parking Lot, Iron  Works Garage, and the Maritime Aquarium Garage. For detailed information seaport.org.


With free shuttle service, convenient parking options, and a full weekend of world-class entertainment, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is more than just an event—it’s a coastal tradition. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of Connecticut’s premier cultural celebrations.


About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Now in its 47th 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, wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village.


About Mohegan Sun Online Casino

Mohegan Sun Online Casino is Connecticut’s premier online casino app with an array of online slots, table games, and live dealer games. Download the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app today to receive exclusive promotions, rewards, and game offerings. Also, link your Mohegan Sun Momentum Card to the Mohegan Sun Online Casino app to earn Momentum Dollars and Status Points from anywhere in the state of Connecticut. https://ct.mohegansuncasino.com/







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