Norwich prepares to host free summer music festival

Music lovers with children who are looking for some fun and free family experiences this summer are in luck, as a music festival is coming to town.

The 2026 Rose Arts Festival in downtown Norwich will see several artists to take the stage and entertain a local audience to kick off the summer months. The multi-day festival will provide an environment suitable for all ages, and with something that each member of the family will enjoy.

Organizers hope to bring new visitors to town to support Norwich businesses and take in all the Rose of Connecticut has to offer. The first day of the festival will coincide with the Dockside Drinks n’ Eats, which showcases the top beverages and culinary options from local eateries. Banner printing is a memorable and colorful way to greet attendees at the gates, offering a subtle but powerful way to provide visibility to sponsors.

The live music portion of the festival begins on Friday, with artists like Oh He Dead, Coyote Island, Mihali, Matt Kampe & The Hub, and Lazy Trail playing. A creative station will provide family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

The festival kicks off at the American Wharf Marina in Norwich on Thursday, June 25 with the gates set to open at 6:00 PM. Admission is free to residents and visitors.