Sailfest 2019

New London, Connecticut

Sailfest: Connecticut’s Hottest Summertime Music And Arts Festival 

There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the rural beauty, charming culture, and beautiful people of Southern Connecticut than by attending the incredible Sailfest. The three-day family-friendly festival is the ultimate summertime event which transforms New London into a wonderland peppered with music, free entertainment, insane fireworks displays, ships, amusement rides, kids’ activities, arts and crafts, and over 200 vendors lining the streets.

Come curious and come hungry: Sailfest will offer lots of enjoyment, shopping, and eating. Several stages offering free live Latin, dance, and country music will make it hard not to dance. Both new and emerging artists will be performing amazing music throughout the event. Shop the dozens of stalls showcasing ridiculously beautiful handmade crafts, jewelry, art, and clothing. Indulge in mouthwatering food: there will be jerky, ice cream, lemonade, crepes, beef-fat fries, tamales, and so much more all while taking in views of elegant sailboats. Speaking of sailboats, the very heart of Sailfest… there will be boats available for day sailing, so make sure to book your rides. 

The event is highly anticipated by the local community, who come full force with kids in tow. Thousands flock from all over the state and country for Sailfest, and for good reason. There are tons of attractions for the kids and the kids at heart, so don’t miss out on this unique Southern Connecticut experience.

Where to view Sailfest

Sailfest takes place in various locations waterfront areas around New London, Southern Connecticut, as well as nearby streets.   

How to get around New London

The Shore Line East train will take you directly to downtown New London, right smack in the heart of all the Sailfest action. A special train has been designated to transport passengers after the fireworks on Saturday night.

Take note of street closures as you plan your Sailfest itinerary: Bank Street, South Water Street, State Street, and Tilley Street will be among the areas closed off to traffic. Those bringing their own cars may park at the corner of Bank and Howard; there is a spacious parking lot for $10 a day. Additionally, parking garages are also found at Water Street Garage and Governor Winthrop Garage.

Where to stay in New London

New London has an extensive array of hotels that caters for all budgets. Prices go up around the time of Sailfest, but head over to the map below for awesome promos on hotels and Airbnb’s. 

Things to do in New London

New London is chock-full of hidden treasures and irresistibly charming towns. The laid-back lifestyle makes it the perfect holiday destination. New London is a beautiful waterfront town with a rich history dating back 350 years. The fascinating history of New London is still very much alive in the many establishments, museums, and attractions in town.

Being on the waterfront, you can be sure that New London has some of the best seafood this side of the country. Appreciate American art from the 18^th century onwards at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, home to over 15,000 displays that will blow your mind. Take some time to chill out at Ocean Beach Park, one of New London’s most famous beaches. Here, you’ll find a picturesque boardwalk, amusement rides for the whole family, mini-golf, arcades, and a relaxing coastal lifestyle. By night, explore the vibrant and colorful nightlife. There are dozens of terrific craft beer breweries, clubs, pubs, and watering holes with something for every taste.

Dates of Sailfest 

Come join the party at Sailfest on July 12 – 14, 2019.