New Canaan Outdoor Summer Concert Series Begins Next Week

NEW CANAAN, CT — Wednesdays are going to be a little more musical in New Canaan starting next week, as the town's recreation department will host the first of a series of free open-air music concerts on June 23.

The summer concert series, which will take place on the lawn and patio behind Waveny House, is an annual tradition New Canaan residents have enjoyed for over 40 years.

According to Recreation Director Steve Benko, the town was unable to hold the concert series last year due to restrictions related to the coronavirus crisis, much to the disappointment of many in town.

"The concerts are a fun family evening on the lawn behind Waveny House," Benko said. "Residents were disappointed that we could not hold them last year, and we have received numerous phone calls asking if we would have them this [year] since the restrictions were lifted. We are excited to have the concerts again this year."

The town currently plans to hold 11 concerts this year featuring a variety of musical groups, many of whom are from the Fairfield County area. Scheduled acts include Airborne, a contemporary jazz group, and Otis and the Hurricanes.

Assistant Recreation Director Bill Knapp said the concerts began as a special event for New Canaan families to gather with their friends and neighbors in the summer.

"The recreation department's Waveny summer concerts have been a community tradition now for over 40 years," Knapp said. "The Waveny Park and Waveny House venue are a perfect location to enjoy an evening outside in a park with live music."

The series is held by the recreation department in co-sponsorship with local New Canaan merchants, according to a news release.

"The event joins the sponsorship of many local businesses as contributors to the program costs," Knapp said. "Each spring, a selection of bands and sponsors is managed by the recreation staff in preparation for the summer schedule. It is a focus to select a variety of music to satisfy everyone."

All of the concerts are free and open to New Canaan residents and their guests. Those in attendance are also welcome to bring a picnic dinner to the park and enjoy the music.

See also: New Canaan To Host Waveny Summer Concert Series

Concerts will start at 7:30 p.m. and last until about 9:30 p.m. each Wednesday beginning June 23. Concert rain dates are scheduled for the following day.

A full list of scheduled music group names can be found on the town website.