It’s that time of the year… the sun is shining brighter, our days are warmer and longer, and there are so many exciting ways to experience summer in Washington this season. Take a look at this amazing lineup of arts festivals, theater performances, old fashioned drive-in movies, live music under the stars, and more. #SayYesCT to summer in Washington!
@thepocafe For a lovely summer evening, head over to the Washington Green to enjoy the Friday night concerts, organized by the First Congregational Church of Washington and The Po Cafe. Grab a blanket or bring your chairs and enjoy a picnic under the stars with sandwiches, treats, and drinks from The Po while listening to local talent. And stay tuned for Washington Friends of Music concerts later this summer!
@shakesperienceproductions Performing arts are a big part of what makes Washington unique. View Shakeperience’s “Wanda Loves William” musical benefit event with Broadway’s Wanda L. Houston on June 12th. And their Shakespeare in the Litchfield Hills is back this summer with a performance of “Twelfth Night” August 4th through 8th, featuring equity and professional actors as well as several local performers. And join us for this summer’s Theatre for Good performance with Tony Award nominee John Cariani and actress Caroline Kinsolving in “Almost, Maine” on July 17th and 18th.
@suthnr Watch some of your favorite films on the big screen at Washington’s Drive-In Movies! Hosted by The Judy Black Memorial Parks & Gardens, movies will be featured monthly on Friday and Saturday evenings all summer at The Riverwalk Pavilion. A perfect date night or family movie night activity.
@aawnuk Visit Hollister House Garden for a peaceful walk through this beautiful English-style garden and take in all the unique plants and flowers in bloom this summer. Get inspired by the garden in the morning light and take a class in plein air painting, photography, or attend any one of Hollister House Garden’s special events happening this summer.
@springhillvineyard Washington’s newest summer festival is debuting at Spring Hill Farm this July 29th through August 8th. The Spring Hill Arts Gathering will connect artists with nature and encourage diverse perspectives with creative collaborations and discussions through their featured programs. Join writer Dani Shapiro, Bossa Nova music, Pride in the Hills, Pilobolus, Momix, the Connecticut Ballet, and many more exciting performances during this exciting multi-day festival.
@washingtonartassociation's Art in the Open Washington is brimming with art, as our galleries around town will feature new works on display throughout the summer. Visit the Washington Art Association’s gallery and join them for their Art in the Open Outdoor Exhibition taking place on July 3rd. You can also view outdoor sculptures in and around Washington Depot, visit Judy Black Memorial Park & Gardens for the latest exhibits, stop in to Byrde + the b for a display local work, and visit KMR Arts to experience their world-class exhibits throughout the summer.
The Washington Green Fair is a quintessential small town fair, right out of a Norman Rockwell painting, filled with treasures for lovers of books, antiques, decor, artwork, and more. Join the First Congregational Church of Washington on July 10th from 9am-2pm to see what special items catch your eye while enjoying live music at this beloved community event!
@gettinviggy This year, we are excited to celebrate Averill Farm’s 275th Anniversary.This unique event will honor the 11 generations of the Averill family and their important role in our community since 1746. Mark your calendars for August 28th and 29th as the celebratory weekend will be filled with arts and culture, music, art classes, wellness classes, and more. Plus a chance to taste the infamous Averill Farm Apple Cider Donut!
Hopkins Vineyard @lizsteeves Every Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer months, Hopkins Vineyard brings us all together with outdoor concerts from local talent and their award-winning whites, reds, and sparkling wines. Bring your family and friends for a wine tasting, enjoy cheese platters, relax, and take in one of the best views in town overlooking Lake Waramaug from the vineyard.
Gunn Historical Museum @gunnhistoricalmuseum Washington offers a step back in time for history buffs and lovers of all things New England. Visit the Gunn Historical Museum and take a deep dive into our town’s history at the Washington, Connecticut – An American Story exhibit, with free tours on Open House Day this June 12th, and self-guided visits throughout the summer. This award-winning exhibit offers the most comprehensive (and exciting!) history of Washington to date. Then take a relaxing afternoon stroll to enjoy the architecture in our historic districts and see if you can find the designs of famous American architect, Ehrick Rossiter. And be sure to visit the Institute for American Indian Studies to explore the history and impact of the “First Nations” from centuries ago.
Download the Checklist View and download Washington’s Summer 2021 arts and culture checklist and see how many events you are able to attend and enjoy this summer!
Visit our Featured Events calendar for details on these events and many more!
And be sure to tag your photos @explorewashingtonct and #SayYesCT
Photo credits on top photo:
Pilobolus at Spring Hill Vineyards; Performance by Shakespearience Productions; Judy Black Memorial Park & Gardens by M3Media Productions; and Guitarist at Spring Hill Vineyards.
