Top 10 Connecticut Events of 2016 | Spring and Summer Fun

Looking  for fun things to do in Connecticut this summer? We’re here to help!

From flowers and strawberries to music and art, our list of the Top 10 Connecticut events of 2016 has something for everyone. Read on to see our picks, then share any we missed in the comments!

APR. 29–MAY 1: HARTFORD, 35th Annual Fine Art & Flowers. The Wadsworth Atheneum’s premier spring fundraiser features floral arrangements and garden designs inspired by works of art in the museum’s collection. Special events, tours, and vendors selling handmade goods round out the festivities. 860-278-2670; thewadsworth.org

MAY 21–22, 28–30; JUNE 4–5: NORTH HAVEN, Robin Hood Springtime Festival. Step back in time to 12th-century Nottingham and revel in the laughter and cheer as you stroll the bustling streets of an Old World marketplace. As you wander, you’ll encounter Robin Hood, Maid Marion, Friar Tuck, and Little John, along with nobles, peasants, jousting knights, fire eaters, magicians, jesters, and other characters in temporary residence at the North Haven Fairgrounds. 860-478-5954; robinhoodsfaire.com

MAY 27–29:STAMFORD, Connecticut Salsa Fest. This annual fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Hospital features live bands, instructional workshops for salsa dancers at all skill levels, dance showcases, and a free community party, all at the Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa. ctsalsafest.com

JUNE 9–12: MYSTIC, 37th Sea Music Festival. Mystic Seaport hosts performers from around the globe who carry on the classic musical traditions of the Golden Age of Sail. A two-day “Music of the Sea” symposium will be held on the nearby Connecticut College campus, along with concerts, kids’ shows, instructional workshops, and plenty of sea music performed aboard the museum’s historic vessels. 860-572-0711; mysticseaport.org

JUNE 11: MIDDLETOWN, Strawberry Fest. Historic Lyman Orchards celebrates the first fruit of the season with a day of music, tastings of strawberry treats, pie-eating contests, horse-drawn wagon rides, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and more. 860-349-1793; lymanorchards.com

JULY 9: HARTFORD, Riverfest. The largest free one-day fireworks celebration in the state takes place at Riverfront Plaza and Great River Park, complete with live bands, clowns, street entertainment, food trucks, kids’ activities, and of course, a dazzling fireworks show over the majestic Connecticut River. 860-713-3131; riverfront.org

AUG. 1–7: CROMWELL, Travelers Golf Championship. More than 150 of the world’s top golfers converge at TPC River Highlands to compete for more than $6 million in prize money. An interactive Fan Zone and family-friendly events are among the off-the-links highlights. 860-502-6809; travelerschampionship.com

AUG. 6–7: GOSHEN, 21st Litchfield Jazz Festival. Visit the fairgrounds and sway to the music all weekend long with a full schedule of performances. With activities for the kids, a bevy of arts and crafts vendors, and lots of good food, there’s something here for the whole family. litchfieldjazzfest.com

AUG. 11–14: HEBRON, 20th Podunk Music Festival. Some of the finest local and national bluegrass groups descend on Lions Fairgrounds—plus workshops, traditional crafts, storytelling, jam sessions, a variety of food, and an entertainment and activities area for the kids. 860-828-9818; podunkbluegrass.net

AUG. 20: HARTFORD, 16th Riverfront Dragon Boat & Asian Festival. The Hartford riverfront is one of the premier dragon-boat venues in the U.S., and this year will see some incredible competition, with 70 teams racing. Cheer them on while enjoying a lineup of authentic Asian entertainment. 860-713-3131; riverfront.org