Photo credits: Washington Green Fair by First Congregational Church; Litchfield Jazz Festival by @lindseyvictoriaphotography; Outdoor movies at Judy Black Park by @m3mediapro; Wine at Hopkins Vineyard @the_counterintourists. Summer is in full swing and there’s no better way to celebrate than taking part in exciting summertime events in the beautiful rolling hills of Litchfield County. Whether you’re a local or simply visiting town for the weekend, we invite you to join us for some of the most beloved summer traditions and events that are the essence of this favorite season in Washington. Your summertime memories await!
Fireworks at Lake Waramaug @ismeewilliams Saturday, July 1st @ Lake Waramaug
Kick off 4th of July weekend by viewing the dramatic fireworks display over Lake Waramaug, a favorite summer tradition in Washington! You can also participate in the Rim-the-Lake flare lighting organized by Lake Waramaug Association. Rain date: Sunday, July 2nd.
Washington Green Fair Saturday, July 8th @ Washington Green
Don’t miss this beloved town tradition and see what treasures you’ll find! The Green Fair features home goods and decor items, a book sale, silent auction items, live music, baked goods, and activities for the kids. This event is held rain or shine. Proceeds from the fair support the preservation of the historic Washington Green and Meeting House.
Music on the Green Fridays in July
Join us at the historic Washington Green for an exciting line-up of musical acts in this free summer concert series! Bring your own chairs and blankets and enjoy a homemade picnic or fabulous treats from The Po Cafe while listening to live music on Friday evenings.
Photo by Michelle Gorra Saturday, July 22nd @ Washington Town Hall
Summer calls for an evening of country music, lawn games, and food and drink tastings! Join National Iron Bank and Washington Parks & Recreation for Country Fest featuring Frankie Justin & Country Steel. The evening will also include food trucks and drinks, axe throwing, corn hole, and more. All are welcome to attend this free concert in the Depot.
Movies @the Park @judyblackpark Friday Evenings @ Judy Black Park
Join us in Washington for a laid back evening of outdoor movies at Judy Black Park and River Walk Pavillion! Outdoor movie nights are free and open to the public. Bring your blankets, chairs, and picnics – and let the fun begin!
Summer 2023 Schedule:
Washington Art Association's Summer Solstice @washingtonartassociation Saturday, July 22nd @ River Walk Pavilion
Get ready for the party of the summer at WAA’s annual Solstice Celebration! Enjoy an evening of live entertainment including performances by Brazilian dancers with tropical beats from Cuban band Ochun, south-of-the-border bites, cocktails by Abdo The Mojito King, tasty traditional Cubanos, and treat your senses with a gallery wall of curated art available for purchase.
Litchfield Jazz Festival by Lindsey Victoria Photography Friday, July 28th – Sunday, July 30th @ Frederick Gunn School
The 28th Annual Litchfield Jazz Festival is a favorite summer event that attracts jazz lovers from far and wide. This year’s festival will feature an Opening Gala on Friday evening, special performances on Saturday, and a Latin Jazz Brunch in the Garden on Sunday along with an art exhibit, artist talks, student performances, and more. Don’t wait to get your tickets today!
Litchfield Performing Arts will also host Litchfield Jazz After Work Concerts on weeknights in July.
Shakespeare in the Litchfield Hills Saturday, August 5th @ River Walk Pavilion
Join Shakesperience Productions for a Shakespeare in the Litchfield Hills performance of “Wanda Loves William” featuring Wanda Houston and the HBH Band. Shakesperience educates and inspires students, families, and theater professionals through the arts and creates innovative, interactive, thought-provoking live theatre programs to be a catalyst for conversation between artist and audience.
Washington Friends of the Music Fridays, August 18th, 25th and September 1st and 8th @ Washington Green
Join the Washington Friends of Music for a stellar cast of world-class musicians who will perform a unique program spanning from baroque and classical periods to the 20th century under the leadership of Artistic Director and widely acclaimed cellist Wendy Sutter. This summer performance will bring an exciting repertoire from Vivaldi to Mozart to Beethoven and Piazzolla.
Hopkins Vineyard @fairfieldhamlethub Weekends all summer
Grab a glass of wine and enjoy gorgeous summer afternoons at the vineyards! Spring Hill Vineyards is open on Saturdays and Sundays for wine tastings and viewings of the awe-inspiring Bee Brook Grotto installation at the top of the Spring Hill Silo by renowned artist Randy Polumbo. Overlooking Lake Waramaug, Hopkins Vineyard hosts live music on Saturdays and Sundays. Wine flights, wines by the bottle, cheese platters, and charcuterie options are available for purchase!
For more summer happenings, view our Events Calendar.
