Regional Attraction Celebrate! West Hartford Returns June 6-7 for 39th Annual Festival

Celebrate! West Hartford will return to Town Hall on Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, 2026, for its 39th annual community festival, bringing together residents and visitors from throughout the region for a weekend of art, entertainment, food, family activities, and civic pride.

Held on the grounds of West Hartford Town Hall at 50 South Main Street, the free two-day event has become an unofficial start to summer in the region and is expected to welcome nearly 40,000 attendees.

This year’s festival will be especially notable as Celebrate! West Hartford also incorporates a special America250 celebration, connecting one of the town’s signature events with the broader national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. Festival-goers can expect a full weekend atmosphere shaped by live entertainment, community exhibitors, food vendors, carnival rides and games, and activities designed for all ages.

 Officials note that a major centerpiece of the weekend is the award-winning Arts & Crafts Show, which will once again feature more than 150 artists and artisans from across Connecticut and the East Coast. Recognized by Sunshine Artist and Hartford Magazine, the juried show has built a strong reputation among collectors, gift shoppers, and visitors looking for high-quality handmade work in a welcoming outdoor setting.

Throughout the weekend, guests can also explore a broad mix of local businesses and nonprofit exhibitors, enjoy gourmet cuisine alongside festival favorites, and hear live music from professional regional bands as well as West Hartford school jazz ensembles.

Festival hours are scheduled for Saturday, June 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday, June 7, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., all at West Hartford Town Hall.

Sunday morning will again feature the Celebrate! West Hartford FUNd RUNS, including a non-competitive Kids’ K and a USATF-certified 5K race which has traditionally drawn some of the state’s fastest runners. The runs are designed to be family-friendly while also supporting local families in need.

A portion of proceeds benefit The Town That Cares and the Leisure Services Scholarship Program, which helps children from low-income families access camps, swimming lessons, and other enrichment opportunities throughout the year. Established in 1987, the festival showcases the town’s community spirit through the arts, amusements, entertainment, food, road races, and participation from local businesses and nonprofits.

“Celebrate! West Hartford reflects the energy, generosity, and creativity of this community,” said Linda Geisler, Event Director. “From the arts and music to the races and family activities, the festival gives people a chance to come together, enjoy all that West Hartford has to offer, and support programs that make a real difference for local families.”

By combining arts, entertainment, wellness, and charitable giving, Celebrate! West Hartford continues to serve as both a regional attraction and a meaningful community tradition, officials point out. Organizers say the event’s long-running success comes from strong local partnerships, volunteer support, and a shared commitment to creating an inclusive weekend that highlights the character of West Hartford.