Donny’s Dash 5K welcomes participants of all abilities, ages and fitness levels to run or walk with free kids & youth runs, a variety of fitness activities, healthy snacks, giveaways and entertainment.

The third running of the Donny’s Dash to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford will be held on Saturday, November 3, 2024. After a successful first two years, the event will now feature a redesigned 5K course and now feature a 1 Mile Fitness Walk.

Both races will start together at 9 AM in the same location on Iron Horse Boulevard (near Wilcox Street) and will finish in the same place on Iron Horse Boulevard adjacent to the Simsbury Performing Arts Center playground.

The post race festivities will take place at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center. Food will be served to all athletes following the race.

There is a kid’s fun run at 10:15 AM, that will run out and back from the 5K/Walk finish line on Iron Horse Boulevard. Following the kid’s race there will be kid friendly activities for entertainment.

Race Details: Click the link above for more information and to register for the event.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Raise your pint glass and experience the tastiest beverages in the area! Local breweries and craft cocktail artists will be onsite to offer samples of their delicious pours! Ask all your hops questions while talking with the master brewers and learning about their trade!

While enjoying the local provisions, soak in the sounds of the live entertainment! We are proud to present two amazing classic rock bands: KSF – A Tribute to Kansas, Styx and Foreigner and opener Sweet Magic.

 Please feel free to bring your own lawn chairs and blankets and stay for the day. General Admission tickets will include a set number of sample tickets which can be exchanged at any beverage tent for FREE. Those wishing to not sample alcohol may purchase the General Admission Event ticket (no tasting tickets included).

There will be family friendly games, freebies, food trucks, activities, and vendors on site too!  With so much to do, don't forget that costumes are encouraged! Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories!

Costume Contest Categories will include:

• Best Family Costume

• Best Adult Costume

• Scariest Kids Costume

• Cutest Kids Costume

• Best Homemade Kids Costume

• Most Creative Kids Costume

Make sure to head over to the pub and purchase a can of Headliner  - an electrolyte enhanced sour ale made exclusively for Simsbury Meadows in collaboration with Transcend Beer Crafters and Brewheads Entertainment - a limited quantity will be available. 

DOORS OPEN AT 12:00PM. Please bring your own seating.

*GENERAL ADMISSION SAMPLING TICKET HOLDERS WILL HAVE ID'S CHECKED UPON ENTRY. PLEASE HAVE YOUR ID AVAILABLE FOR QUICKER EVENT ENTRY.

Food & Beverage Policy: NO outside alcohol. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will also be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. Picnics are allowed.

Food Vendors:

Frankie's Food Truck 

Gramma Lil's 

Los Mariachis on Wheels 

Yummy Wagon 

Ben & Jerry's 

Faddy's Donuts

Event Details:

Tickets purchased in advance: $35 tasting ticket, $25 General Admission No Sample Tickets.

Tickets purchased day of the event: $40 tasting ticket and $30 General Admission No Sample Tickets.

Kids 12 and under enter for FREE!

• ALL tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt or no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests. 

  Event is rain or shine.

  Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

  Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

  Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

  Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. 

  Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Are you turning 21 on October 27Th? Come celebrate your birthday with us and Raising Cane’s will provide you with a birthday Celebration basket!

MORE BREWERIES TO BE ANNOUNCED…

MEET THE ARTISTS:

KSF: A Tribute to Kansas, Styx, and Foreigner

KSF was formed in Connecticut in 2019 by six veterans of the music scene. Our goal is simple: to provide the audience with an authentic recreation of three of music's most iconic bands of the 70s and 80s.

Sweet Magic

Sweet Magic performs the most popular rock songs from the biggest bands of the 70’s and 80s re-creating the experience of Classic Rock from a time where many thought rock and roll was at its best. Their driving edge show fully engages the crowd with song renditions including legendary artists such as Pat Benatar, Stevie Nicks, Blondie, Melissa Ethridge, Foreigner, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Ozzy, and more. They capture the energy and power that has made this style of music one of the most popular of all time.

Meet The Band:

• Karen Gomez - Lead Vocals

• Ron DeMartino - Guitar

• Peter Fell - Bass

• Craig Wall - Drums

• Jeff Bousfield - Keyboards

• Special Guest - Peyton Meissner - Guitar

 Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds:

• View obstructing items (such as tents, canopies, beach, golf, or ground mounted umbrellas, large signs, posters, flags, etc.)

• Tarps and large tables

• Audio and video recording devices, drones or flash photography

• Radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment

• Hard ball playing, projectiles, or other sports equipment

• Pets (unless ADA approved service animals)

• Fireworks, flame candles, sparklers, or any other incendiary devices

• Smoking, hard liquor, or illegal substances

• Knives, guns, mace, pepper spray or other items deemed a potential weapon

• Laser pointers

• Charcoal or gas grills

• Solicitation or unauthorized concessions

• Lewdness or other inappropriate behavior

Thank you to our Brewstock sponsors!

Details: Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 9:30 am. This event will benefit OAH𝘚𝘛𝘙𝘐𝘋𝘌𝘚' mission to empower under-resourced families to live active, healthy lifestyles.

Awards: 1st, 2nd, 3rd male and female overall; 1st in age groups: 13 and under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80+

Registration: Race day registration begins at 8am.

Entry Fee:

• Before September 1st: $30.00

• September 1st thru September 30th: $35.00

• October 1st thru October 5th: $40.00

• Race day: $45.00

• Kids 1k fun run: $20.00

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Yoga, Dance, and Fitness Center is thrilled to present an eclectic showcase that promises a feast for the senses and a celebration of movement and wellness. Led by a team of passionate instructors and performers, this event features live music, mesmerizing belly dancing, and vibrant hula hooping. Guests can immerse themselves in the rhythm and flow of yoga sessions, explore a variety of vendors, and enjoy a diverse selection of food trucks. The day also includes enriching classes, healing arts, intuitive readings, face painting, henna, and so much more. This multifaceted gathering is designed to uplift and energize, leaving everyone with a sense of joy and rejuvenation.

For tickets please visit the following link: https://ydfcenter.com/fall-festival

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Kinetic Ukes Ensemble is the performance arm of Kinetic Ukes. Led by music director, Jim Lenn, they deliver a fun, relaxing vibe to timeless songs, putting a smile on everyone’s face - performers and audience members alike. Following Duke Ellington’s wisdom - “if it sounds good, it IS good” - Kinetic Ukes performs joyful tunes in a variety of genres from classic ukulele songs to modern country, blues and rock. Popular tunes from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s make up the core repertoire, with true oldies (1920’s) and more contemporary songs sprinkled here and there.

The Kinetic Ukes FREE summer concert series is sure to please everyone! Bring your chairs and Sunday afternoon picnics, and feel free to sing along! This event is rain or shine.

The Simsbury-Granby Rotary Club invites you to join us on Saturday, September 21, 2024 for the 28th annual River Run in picturesque Simsbury, Connecticut. This family-friendly event features USATF certified 5k and 10k road races, a 1-mile kid’s run and fun, healthy activities.

100% of the proceeds go back into the community!! Previous beneficiaries include:
- College scholarships for High School graduates
- Foodshare in Bloomfield
- Drake Hill Flower Bridge
- Gifts of Love
- Healing Meals
- Simsbury High Unified Sports
- JDRF (Diabetes Research)
- Interval House of Hartford
- Farmington Valley YMCA
- Easter Seals

Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Solving real problems takes real commitment and vision.

For more than 110 years, Rotary’s people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Details: Saturday, September 14th and Sunday, September 15th from 10 am to 4 pm.

Information for Vendors:

Exhibitor Registration Fee: $225 (read Terms and Conditions for details)

Exhibitor Load-in:

• Friday, Sept. 13: 12 pm - 7 pm

• Saturday, Sept. 14: 7 am - 9:30 am

​All arts and crafts must be the original creation of the Exhibitor. No agents are allowed. Manufactured items and works made from kits of any kind are not acceptable. Sale or exhibit of items or services not listed on the application form will not be allowed. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in your being asked to leave the Festival and disqualified from future festivals.

 We hope you can join us! 

 For more information please contact: simsburyartsandcraftsfestival@gmail.com.

Important Links:

Exhibitor Online Registration Form

Terms and Conditions

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. 

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Details: Saturday, September 14th and Sunday, September 15th from 10 am to 4 pm.

Information for Vendors:

Exhibitor Registration Fee: $225 (read Terms and Conditions for details)

Exhibitor Load-in:

• Friday, Sept. 13: 12 pm - 7 pm

• Saturday, Sept. 14: 7 am - 9:30 am

​All arts and crafts must be the original creation of the Exhibitor. No agents are allowed. Manufactured items and works made from kits of any kind are not acceptable. Sale or exhibit of items or services not listed on the application form will not be allowed. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in your being asked to leave the Festival and disqualified from future festivals.

 We hope you can join us! 

 For more information please contact: simsburyartsandcraftsfestival@gmail.com.

Important Links:

Exhibitor Online Registration Form

Terms and Conditions

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. 

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Aloha! The inaugural Nutmeg Ukulele Festival returns with FIVE new teaching artists for 2024! Teaching artists this year are Anne Ku, Armand Aromin, Abby Lyons, Jim Beloff and Jim Lenn.

The one day, eight hour festival includes 4 workshop sessions, a silent auction, vendors and lunch!

Registration opens at 8:00am. Group warmup begins at 9:00am. Workshop materials, day of instructions, and the festival schedule will be emailed to ticket holders the week of the event! Lunch will be provided but please feel free to BYO snacks and refreshments for your enjoyment for throughout the day!

Event Details: Tickets cost $100.

ALL TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.

🎵 Workshop Schedule:

9:00 am Welcome and Warmups in the Auditorium

WORKSHOP CLASS 1 9:30-10:45 am

A. How to personalize the Happy Birthday song - Beginner – Anne Ku in the Auditorium

B. Ukulele 101 – Beginner Level – Abby Lyons in the Youth Room

C. Fingers to Spare? Try Chord Embellishments! Beginner/Intermediate –Armand Aromin in the Old Court Room

D. The Baritone Ukulele - Jim Lenn in the South Conference Room

BREAK 10:45-10:55 am

WORKSHOP CLASS 2 10:55 am-12:10 pm

A. Musical Theater Songs – Intermediate - Abby Lyons in the Auditorium

B. Hawaiian vamp in Hawaiian songs – Beginner/Intermediate -Anne Ku in the Youth Room

C. Clawhammer Ukulele –Intermediate to Advanced -Armand Aromin in the Old Court Room

LUNCH AND SHOPPING/Artist Showcases 12:10-1:10 pm

WORKSHOP CLASS 3 1:10-2:25 pm

A. Taylor Swift Songs – Beginner - Abby Lyon in the Auditorium

B. Ode to Joy for Ukulele – Beginner/Intermediate - Anne Ku in the Youth Room

C. Jazzing Up The Ukulele – Intermediate to Advanced - Jim Beloff in the Old Court Room

BREAK 2:25-2:35 pm

WORKSHOP CLASS 4 2:35-3:50 pm

A. Uke accompaniment for folk music and how to make it groove- (with

fiddle accompaniment) – All levels - Armand Aromin in the Auditorium

B. Fingerpicking – Beginner to Intermediate - Abby Lyons in the Youth Room

C. The Two Most Important Chords in Every Key – Intermediate - Anne Ku in the Old Court Room

Break and Silent Auction 3:50-4:00 pm

Group Play Along in the Auditorium 4:00-5:00 pm

Event Concludes 5:00 pm

MEET THE ARTISTS

Anne Ku

Born in Brunei and raised in Taiwan and Okinawa, Anne Ku embraced music at a young age, traversing various instruments until she discovered the ukulele on Maui. After earning her music degree in composition and teaching diploma in piano (on sightreading) from Utrecht Conservatory in the Netherlands, she performed widely as a chamber musician in duos with classical guitar, French horn, and cello. She taught music (class piano, music theory, music history, world music, and instrumental ensemble) at the University of Hawaii Maui College before moving to Boston where she started a ukulele club. Having written her MA in Music thesis on ukulele song sheets and participative music making, Anne believes the ukulele is the fastest way to making music and staying connected. She hosts 3 Chord Thursday, a song session in Zoom she founded at the beginning of the pandemic lockdown, reaching more than 3,000 members on Facebook.

Armand Aromin

In chronological order, Armand Aromin is a queer Filipino American musician, percussive dancer, singer, and violin maker now enmortgaged in Riverside, Rhode Island. More importantly, if you can say “Arm & Hammer” you’re pronouncing his name correctly! Like many who came before him, Armand’s ukulele journey, too, began with the Irish fiddle in high school. After a text message break up his senior year (he’s doing fine.) his heart told him, “The only way to heal is to stress-purchase a 5-string banjo.” And so he did. But while contentedly clawhammering his way through college, he beheld his first ukulele, and thus his eyes were truly opened. It was as if a banjo-shaped weight was lifted from his shoulders! Now, lo these many years, the clawhammer’s twang has graced/grazed many an ear with a growing repertoire of tunes and songs that continue to wonderfully confound the writer of this bio. Armand is one-half of The Vox Hunters, a quarter of Eight Feet Tall, and at least a third of The Ivy Leaf. He proudly owns Aromin Violins, a tiny workshop within five paces of his bedroom. He also regularly teaches private lessons at his home, as well as group classes at the Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland, RI.

Abby Lyons

Abby Lyons is a singer-songwriter with a following of over 75k subscribers on YouTube, where she shares her original songs, covers, and music tutorials. She is recording her third studio album of original songs, which was funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $10k. The release date for the third album is set for September 2024. She has performed and taught workshops at many venues and festivals, including the Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival, UkeCon, the Wonderfront Festival, and the Square Roots Festival. Lyons is also known for her ukulele playing and teaching as an instructor on the Fender Play platform. Behind the scenes, she wrote hundreds of lessons and assisted in curriculum design. Currently she teaches ukulele, songwriting, and piano at the legendary Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. Lyons also records vocals for Grammy Award-winning film composer, Lorne Balfe, and her singing can be heard most prominently on the shows, Life On Our Planet with Morgan Freeman on Netflix and The Wheel Of Time on Amazon Prime. Other work in television includes writing the lyrics for the song, “Candlesticks and Caravans,” which is featured on the British crime show Pennyworth. Her original song, “Nightmare in the Morning,” is part of an animated short that was featured in Shortnitemares, an online film festival hosted by Epic Games in the game Fortnite Party Royale. The animation was broadcast on Disney XD in 2017 and chosen as Vimeo’s Staff Pick in 2016. Currently Lyons lives in Chicago and spends her time performing, recording, and teaching

Jim Beloff: (pronounced bee-loff)

Jim Beloff is the author of The Ukulele—A Visual History (Backbeat Books) and author, arranger, and publisher of the Jumpin’ Jim’s series of ukulele songbooks with over 1,000,000 copies in print. This series is available worldwide and includes The Daily Ukulele, one of the biggest and best-selling ukulele songbooks ever published. All Jumpin’ Jim’s songbooks are distributed by Hal Leonard LLC. In December 2021, Backbeat books published Jim’s memoir, UKEtopia—Adventures in the Ukulele World. Jim produced Legends of Ukulele, a CD compilation for Rhino Records, and has made three how-to-play DVDs for Homespun. He is also an active songwriter and has released a number of CDs. His two-CD set, Dreams I Left in Pockets, features 33 songs he wrote or co-wrote with uke legends, Herb “Ohta-san” Ohta and Lyle Ritz. His most recent album, The Wind and Sun, was released in August 2020. In 1999, Jim composed and premiered Uke Can’t Be Serious, a concerto for solo ukulele and symphony orchestra. Since then, the piece has been performed with both high school and professional orchestras, including the Michigan Philharmonic in 2016. He has also performed it many times with a string quartet. His second concerto for ukulele and orchestra, The Dove Tale, premiered in 2017 with the Wallingford (Connecticut) Symphony Orchestra. Jim and his wife, Liz Maihock Beloff, own Flea Market Music, Inc., a company dedicated to the ukulele and they play their family’s Fluke, Flea and Firefly ukes. They have toured Japan, Australia and Canada and believe in their company’s motto, “Uke Can Change the World.” Visit Jim online: Here.

Jim Lenn

Jim Lenn grew up in southern California. Starting music at the age of eight and after hearing The Beatles at 12, he knew music would play a big part in his life. Upon relocating to the East Coast in 1999, Jim needed to travel for work and the friendly, portable ukulele became a mainstay of his travels. After being asked to teach ukulele for the Windsor Adult Education program in 2015 the New England Ukulele Ensemble was formed. Along with this larger ensemble the ukulele quartet Snapback was created and after opening for the Hartford Symphony, they released their well-received Christmas CD “Uke Tide Carols.” During this time Jim was also teaching ukulele for the Granby Library and a group in Simsbury. With the difficulties brought on by the Covid 19 Pandemic it was decided that all these groups could be brought together to form what is now the Kinetic Ukes performance ensemble. For the past 3 years Jim has directed the Kinetic Ukes based out of Simsbury, Connecticut. Besides performing solo acoustic shows throughout New England, Jim is involved in the James Hill Ukulele Initiative and is most happy when teaching and sharing the love of ukulele and music with anyone interested!

Third Annual Nutmeg Ukulele Festival Workshops

ANNE KU

How to personalize the Happy Birthday song - Intermediate

One of the songs every ukulele player should know by heart, happy birthday is a three chord song that has great potential. Personalize your birthday greeting by adding your own introduction, riffs, chords and other musical elements.

Hawaiian vamp in Hawaiian songs - Advanced

The famous three-chord progression to introduce a song and interlude between verses and refrains is based on the Circle of Fifths. The exact chords depend on the key of the song. Learn the Hawaiian vamp in the most popular keys and the strum and fingerpicking patterns to make it authentic.

Ode to Joy for ukulele - Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced (everybody plays!)

2024 is the bicentennial of the premiere of Beethoven's last symphony which contains the famous "Ode to Joy" in the final movement. In 1985, it was adopted to become the European Union anthem. Learn the different parts to play this piece together. You can finger pick and strum.

The Two Most Important Chords in Every Key - Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced

What are the 20% of chords and 20% of the keys that are used 80% of the time? Here's a shortcut to learning and accompanying most of the songs you'll ever play. We will cycle through these chords and dozens of songs you already know in this workshop, for all levels. Beginner players will practice fingering and switching between chords and learn new strum patterns. Advanced players can fingerpick the melodies as well as add riffs to ornament.

ARMAND AROMIN

Intro/int/adv Clawhammer Ukulele - Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced

Learn foundational technique.

Fingers to Spare? Try Chord Embellishments! - Advanced

Bored with your chords? We’ll use free fingers to embellish the chords you (possibly) already know!

Uke accompaniment for folk music and how to make it groove- (with fiddle accompaniment) - Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced

Any level, working on rhythmic and chordal ideas to accompany Irish/old time/etc tunes, and how to make it fit the style

ABBY LYONS

Ukulele 101 - Beginner

So you just picked up a ukulele, hooray! Let’s learn how to hold the ukulele, how to strum, the 4 most common chords, and a couple of simple songs.

Fingerpicking - Beginner/Intermediate

New to the world of fingerpicking? Come to this workshop to learn 3 common picking patterns that you can apply to many songs!

Taylor Swift songs - Beginner

Learn how to play 22 easy Taylor Swift songs on your ukulele. Chords include C F Am and G. Tracklist: Out of the Woods, Shake It Off, All Too Well, Blank Space, and many more!

Musical Theater songs - Intermediate

Learn how to play musical theater songs on your ukulele! This genre of music explores complex harmonies, so there will be a large variety of chords. Tracklist may include: Tomorrow from Annie, For Good from Wicked, and Memory from Cats.

JIM BELOFF

Jazzing Up The Ukulele - Advanced

How to use chord substitutions to “jazz up” a simple 4 or 5 chord song. Based on the 2015 Flea Market Music book. We’ll also play through several Lyle Ritz classic jazz arrangements.

JIM LENN

The Baritone Ukulele-Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced

Do you play the baritone ukulele ?? Have you thought of getting a baritone ukulele but are not sure how it fits into the standard ukulele world, especially at group events when only standard ukulele chords are shown on the music or projected on the screen ?? The baritone ukulele is the unsung hero of the ukulele world !! In this class we will explore the many benefits and uses of this fantastic instrument not only in group play but also as a solo instrument - We will look at some techniques to get the most out of the baritone ukulele and some ways to make it easier to participate in group events – So grab you're baritone ukulele, or come to see if adding a baritone ukulele to your musical journey is right for you, and let's play!

Aloha! On the eve of the 3rd Annual Nutmeg Ukulele Festival, we welcome you to a unique and intimate experience.

Meet and greet festival participants and the 2024 festival teaching artists! Artists in attendance will include Anne Ku, Abby Lyons, Armand Aromin, and Jim Lenn. A buffet dinner of chicken, meatballs, pasta, soft drinks and wine will be included with your ticket purchase. Bring your music stand and ukulele for an informal jam and open mic opportunities!

Network, socialize and make some music with us! All for only $25 (plus EventBrite fees).

Event Details: Admission is $25 (plus EventBrite fees)

• ALL tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE

• EVENT WILL BE HELD AT OLD WELL TAVERN (20 Tariffville Road Simsbury, CT, 06070)

Nutmeg Ukulele artists that will be in attendance include:

Abby Lyons

Abby Lyons is a singer-songwriter with a following of over 75k subscribers on YouTube, where she shares her original songs, covers, and music tutorials. She is recording her third studio album of original songs, which was funded through a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised over $10k. The release date for the third album is set for September 2024. She has performed and taught workshops at many venues and festivals, including the Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival, UkeCon, the Wonderfront Festival, and the Square Roots Festival. Lyons is also known for her ukulele playing and teaching as an instructor on the Fender Play platform. Behind the scenes, she wrote hundreds of lessons and assisted incurriculum design. Currently she teaches ukulele, songwriting, and piano at the legendaryOld Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. Lyons also records vocals for Grammy Award-winning film composer, Lorne Balfe, and her singing can be heard most prominently on the shows, Life On Our Planet with Morgan Freeman on Netflix and The Wheel Of Time on Amazon Prime. Other work in television includes writing the lyrics for the song, “Candlesticks and Caravans,” which is featured on the British crime show Pennyworth. Her original song, “Nightmare in the Morning,” is part of an animated short that was featured in Shortnitemares, an online film festival hosted by Epic Games in the game Fortnite Party Royale. The animation was broadcast on Disney XD in 2017 and chosen as Vimeo’s Staff Pick in 2016. Currently Lyons lives in Chicago and spends her time performing, recording, and teaching.

Anne Ku

Born in Brunei and raised in Taiwan and Okinawa, Anne Ku embraced music at a young age, traversing various instruments until she discovered the ukulele on Maui. After earning her music degree in composition and teaching diploma in piano (on sightreading) from Utrecht Conservatory in the Netherlands, she performed widely as a chamber musician in duos with classical guitar, French horn, and cello. She taught music (class piano, music theory, music history, world music, and instrumental ensemble) at the University of Hawaii Maui College before moving to Boston where she started a ukulele club. Having written her MA in Music thesis on ukulele song sheets and participative music making, Anne believes the ukulele is the fastest way to making music and staying connected. She hosts 3 Chord Thursday, a song session in Zoom she founded at the beginning of the pandemic lockdown, reaching more than 3,000 members on Facebook.

Armand Aromin

In chronological order, Armand Aromin is a queer Filipino American musician, percussive dancer, singer, and violin maker now enmortgaged in Riverside, Rhode Island. More importantly, if you can say “Arm & Hammer” you’re pronouncing his name correctly!Like many who came before him, Armand’s ukulele journey, too, began with the Irish fiddle in high school. After a text message break up his senior year (he’s doing fine.) his heart told him, “The only way to heal is to stress-purchase a 5-string banjo.” And so he did. But while contentedly clawhammering his way through college, he beheld his first ukulele, and thus his eyes were truly opened. It was as if a banjo-shaped weight was lifted from his shoulders! Now, lo these many years, the clawhammer’s twang has graced/grazed many an ear with a growing repertoire of tunes and songs that continue to wonderfully confound the writer of this bio.Armand is one-half of The Vox Hunters, a quarter of Eight Feet Tall, and at least a third of The Ivy Leaf. He proudly owns Aromin Violins, a tiny workshop within five paces of his bedroom. He also regularly teaches private lessons at his home, as well as group classes at the Blackstone River Theatre in Cumberland, RI.

Thanks to our event sponsor Old Well Tavern, located at

20 Tariffville Road, Simsbury CT!

Bring a picnic and grab a seat on the lawn or a reserved table up front. Even better, join us for the VIP experience with a catered table for eight from Metro Bis Restaurant including wine and parking. Gates open at 6:00 pm, 5:00 pm for VIP seating, and show starts at 7:00 pm! 

 Mike DelGuidice - Dynamic Vocalist/Recording Artist/Singer/Songwriter - Currently tours with Billy Joel all over the world including every month at the Iconic Madison Square Garden.

All proceeds benefit Favarh – The Arc of the Farmington Valley, helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live, work, and fully participate in 34 Connecticut communities since 1958.

Event Details: General admission is $30; $35 after August 23rd; VIP early entry is $10 extra; $10 for children 12 and under.

Please bring your own seating.

Parking: Limited On-site Accessible Parking Fee is $10.00 Complimentary accessible parking and shuttle service from Henry James Middle School is available beginning at 5:00 pm on the day of the event.  

Food & Beverage Policy: NO outside alcohol. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. Picnics allowed. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

Food Vendors:

Calabria Mia 

Frankie's Food Truck 

Yummy Wagon 

Ben & Jerry's 

Faddy's Donuts 

Popover's (pre-orders only)

Mike DelGuidice

Renowned vocalist, singer-songwriter, and recording artist, Mike DelGuidice has been wowing audiences with his powerful vocals, showcasing his talent, eclectic songwriting, friendly, engaging stage presence, and extensive touring. He's built a national following as a full-time touring member of Billy Joel's Band, touring all over the world, including every month at The Iconic Madison Square Garden. If you've been to a Billy Joel concert in the past 10 years, then you've seen Billy Joel spotlight Mike's powerful vocals and talent. (YouTube search, "Mike DelGuidice Billy Joel.") While on tour with Billy Joel he has shared the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Bryan Adams, Tony Bennett, Paul Simon, John Mayer, John Mellencamp, and Adam Levine to name a few.

Mike has been featured on The NBC Today Show, CBS This Morning Show as well as Rolling Stone Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, and numerous others.

You can even hear Mike sing opera in concert live with Billy Joel - https://youtu.be/0EmREeEMJDU.

At present, while still touring with Billy Joel, Mike is releasing new music. He has released three albums, "My Street", "Miller Place” and most recently "Mask Production" and is working on the 4th.

Mike also scored the Theme song to Actor/Comedian Kevin James Sitcom 'Kevin Can Wait’ with his original song “Ordinary Guy” (written/recorded/produced by DelGuidice). - https://www.billyjoel.com/news/tune-in-mikedelguidice

Kevin is featured in Mike's original song video "Mona Lisa” - https://youtu.be/TvOZNVW_nsc

FOLLOW: Mike DelGuidice on Social Media
www.michaeldelguidice.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mikedelguidiceofficial
Twitter - @MikeDelguidice1
Instagram - @mike_delguidice

TikTok - @mikedelguidice

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Join us for the I Love Music Festival on August 31st! It’ll feature food trucks, vendors, and hip hop and r&b favorites across multiple decades. You won’t want to miss it!

• ALL tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt or no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests. 

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. 

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Just as the world's finest classical musicians pay tribute to works by Stravinsky, Mozart, Beethoven and Rachmaninoff, Tom Cridland has devoted himself to celebrating the artistic legacy of Sir Elton Hercules John and his longterm bandmates, Nigel Olsson, Davey Johnstone, Dee Murray and Ray Cooper, through his live performances of Tom's Elton Tribute.

Tom plays all of Elton John's best loved classic hits, album tracks, deep cuts and fan favourites, including Bennie and the Jets, Tiny Dancer, Rocket Man, Candle In The Wind, Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me, I’m Still Standing, Crocodile Rock and Your Song.

Tickets for this event are available for purchase here. VIP tickets include table seating and early access at 4pm.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

Food Vendors for this event:

• Frankie's Food Truck

• Pre-Order at Popover

• Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Kinetic Ukes Ensemble is the performance arm of Kinetic Ukes. Led by music director, Jim Lenn, they deliver a fun, relaxing vibe to timeless songs, putting a smile on everyone’s face - performers and audience members alike. Following Duke Ellington’s wisdom - “if it sounds good, it IS good” - Kinetic Ukes performs joyful tunes in a variety of genres from classic ukulele songs to modern country, blues and rock. Popular tunes from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s make up the core repertoire, with true oldies (1920’s) and more contemporary songs sprinkled here and there.

The Kinetic Ukes FREE summer concert series is sure to please everyone! Bring your chairs and Sunday afternoon picnics, and feel free to sing along!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT.

Let’s Sing Taylor - A Live Band Experience - is the ultimate tribute to the music of Taylor Swift!

Calling all Swifties! It’s time to break out your friendship bracelets and shake it off during the ultimate tribute to the music of country-pop icon Taylor Swift! Let’s Sing Taylor - A Live Band Experience is hitting the stage at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center on Saturday, August 3rd from 6 pm to 9 pm. Get ready to dance, sing, make precious memories, and be enchanted beyond your wildest dreams!

Special guest opener, Let's Sing Olivia, A Live Band Experiece celebrating the music of Olivia Rodrigo will kick off the evening and get the party started!

Event Details: General admission is $35, early entry is $50, children 2 and under enter for free.

GATES OPEN AT 4:00PM for EARLY ACCESS TICKET HOLDERS.

GATES OPEN AT 5:00PM for GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET HOLDERS.

Please bring your own seating.

• All bags subject to search.

• Tickets are NON REFUNDABLE.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No re-entry.

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

Food and Beverage Policy: N0 outside alcohol. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. Picnics allowed. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Thank you to our Let’s Sing Sponsors!

SILVER:

BRONZE:

ABOUT CIRCUS SMIRKUS

Circus Smirkus has been performing to sell-out crowds to towns all over the Northeast for over thirty years and is the nation’s only traveling youth circus. That means the stars are kids, not adults, not animals, and it performs under authentic European-style circus tents where patrons experience the authentic and historic flair of the traditional circus. It’s not something that comes to town every day. Located in Greensboro, Vermont, Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit arts and education organization whose mission is to promote the skills, culture and traditions of the traveling circus.

To purchase tickets in advance to Circus Smirkus, please visit www.smirkus.org or call 877-SMIRKUS.

Details: Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors (65+), $25 child (2-12), under 2, free on lap. Groups of 10 or more will receive a 10% discount. Gates open an hour before the show.

Parking Shuttle: A Parking Shuttle will not be provided.

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside food or alcohol.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Thank you to our Circus Smirkus Sponsors!

ABOUT CIRCUS SMIRKUS

Circus Smirkus has been performing to sell-out crowds to towns all over the Northeast for over thirty years and is the nation’s only traveling youth circus. That means the stars are kids, not adults, not animals, and it performs under authentic European-style circus tents where patrons experience the authentic and historic flair of the traditional circus. It’s not something that comes to town every day. Located in Greensboro, Vermont, Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit arts and education organization whose mission is to promote the skills, culture and traditions of the traveling circus.

To purchase tickets in advance to Circus Smirkus, please visit www.smirkus.org or call 877-SMIRKUS.

Details: Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors (65+), $25 child (2-12), under 2, free on lap. Groups of 10 or more will receive a 10% discount. Gates open an hour before the show.

Parking Shuttle: A Parking Shuttle will not be provided.

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside food or alcohol.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Thank you to our Circus Smirkus Sponsors!

ABOUT CIRCUS SMIRKUS

Circus Smirkus has been performing to sell-out crowds to towns all over the Northeast for over thirty years and is the nation’s only traveling youth circus. That means the stars are kids, not adults, not animals, and it performs under authentic European-style circus tents where patrons experience the authentic and historic flair of the traditional circus. It’s not something that comes to town every day. Located in Greensboro, Vermont, Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit arts and education organization whose mission is to promote the skills, culture and traditions of the traveling circus.

To purchase tickets in advance to Circus Smirkus, please visit www.smirkus.org or call 877-SMIRKUS.

Details: Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors (65+), $25 child (2-12), under 2, free on lap. Groups of 10 or more will receive a 10% discount. Gates open an hour before the show.

Parking Shuttle: A Parking Shuttle will not be provided.

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside food or alcohol.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Thank you to our Circus Smirkus Sponsors!

ABOUT CIRCUS SMIRKUS

Circus Smirkus has been performing to sell-out crowds to towns all over the Northeast for over thirty years and is the nation’s only traveling youth circus. That means the stars are kids, not adults, not animals, and it performs under authentic European-style circus tents where patrons experience the authentic and historic flair of the traditional circus. It’s not something that comes to town every day. Located in Greensboro, Vermont, Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit arts and education organization whose mission is to promote the skills, culture and traditions of the traveling circus.

To purchase tickets in advance to Circus Smirkus, please visit www.smirkus.org or call 877-SMIRKUS.

Details: Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors (65+), $25 child (2-12), under 2, free on lap. Groups of 10 or more will receive a 10% discount. Gates open an hour before the show.

Parking Shuttle: A Parking Shuttle will not be provided.

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside food or alcohol.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Thank you to our Circus Smirkus Sponsors!

Featuring the classic Country hits you know and love from legendary stars Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash to the biggest stars of today like Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, The Chicks and Kacey Musgraves. COUNTRY HITS, with brand new symphonic arrangements from Grammy-winner Jeff Tyzik, breathes new life into this timeless American art-form and features two of Nashville’s brightest young vocal stars Grace Leer and Rick Brantley along with four of Nashville’s most in demand instrumentalists.

Details: Entry to the field begins at 6:00 pm. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

Weather Policy: Rain date is Saturday, July 27th.

Seating: Please bring your own seating.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

Ticket Information: The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is excited to welcome you to the Talcott Mountain Music Festival. Five concert table packages, Grass Passes, and Lawn seats are available for purchase online, by calling (860)-987-5900, or by visiting our on-site box office June 26-July 29 from 11 AM – 7 PM on weekdays (with extended hours on TMMF concert days). The on-site box office is located at 22 Iron Horse Blvd, Simsbury, CT 06070

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

Bikes are not permitted on the field. Please lock your bicycles at the bike rack and then enter the concert.

The HSO asks that you please carpool whenever possible. Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is now handling parking sales for TMMF. A limited number of parking passes for lots on site are available for purchase at each concert for $10 per vehicle (cash only).  Parking passes can only be purchased on the day of the concert starting at 5 PM.  Passes will be sold on a first-come-first served basis to those patrons displaying a valid state issued accessible parking permit. Limited free parking is available in the commuter lots along Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. Convenient and free shuttle service is also available from the Iron Horse Blvd. commuter lot at the intersection of Iron Horse Blvd. and Wilcox Street, as well as from Henry James Memorial Middle School, beginning at 5:00pm each evening. An accessible shuttle will be offered for patrons with disabilities. For questions please email Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center at operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site.

First Aid: First Aid services are available in the southwest corner of the site, near the front of the lawn.  Trained First Responder personnel are also stationed throughout the grounds.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in the First Aid Tent during the concert.  At all other times those items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center Office.

Clean Up: Please help by bagging your trash and depositing it in the available containers.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Take a ride back in time to an era when the greatest music in rock was being made and the careers of the legends we all love today were born! Paying homage to one of the greatest and most popular bands in music history, LANDSLIDE recreates the hits from yesteryear, taking fans on an electric journey through FLEETWOOD MAC’s incredible catalog of music, including the hits from their solo-careers. Because of LANDSLIDE’s genuine love and reverence for FLEETWOOD MAC, they spare no effort in captivating fans with an authentic concert experience. LANDSLIDE is truly one of the crown jewels of the National Tribute Band music scene.

Details: Entry to the field begins at 6:00 pm. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

Seating: Please bring your own seating.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

Ticket Information: The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is excited to welcome you to the Talcott Mountain Music Festival. Five concert table packages, Grass Passes, and Lawn seats are available for purchase online, by calling (860)-987-5900, or by visiting our on-site box office June 26-July 29 from 11 AM – 7 PM on weekdays (with extended hours on TMMF concert days). The on-site box office is located at 22 Iron Horse Blvd, Simsbury, CT 06070

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

Bikes are not permitted on the field. Please lock your bicycles at the bike rack and then enter the concert.

The HSO asks that you please carpool whenever possible. Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is now handling parking sales for TMMF. A limited number of parking passes for lots on site are available for purchase at each concert for $10 per vehicle (cash only).  Parking passes can only be purchased on the day of the concert starting at 5 PM.  Passes will be sold on a first-come-first served basis to those patrons displaying a valid state issued accessible parking permit. Limited free parking is available in the commuter lots along Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. Convenient and free shuttle service is also available from the Iron Horse Blvd. commuter lot at the intersection of Iron Horse Blvd. and Wilcox Street, as well as from Henry James Memorial Middle School, beginning at 5:00pm each evening. An accessible shuttle will be offered for patrons with disabilities. For questions please email Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center at operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site.

First Aid: First Aid services are available in the southwest corner of the site, near the front of the lawn.  Trained First Responder personnel are also stationed throughout the grounds.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in the First Aid Tent during the concert.  At all other times those items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center Office.

Clean Up: Please help by bagging your trash and depositing it in the available containers.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Experience the timeless classics of the Rolling Stones on July 12, as the Hartford Symphony brings Brent Havens arrangements of the legendary band’s greatest hits to life. With sensational performers delivering stunning renditions of Mick Jagger’s vocals, audiences will be treated to symphonic arrangements of iconic songs such as “Satisfaction,” “Paint It Black,” and “Angie.” 

Details: Entry to the field begins at 6:00 pm. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

Seating: Please bring your own seating.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

How to Purchase Tickets: Purchase at hartfordsymphony.org, over the phone at 860.987.5900, or in person at the Bushnell Box Office (166 Capitol AveHartford, CT 06106) Monday – Friday 10am-5pm. Children 12 or under can get the Child rate ($5 over the phone or online [but with other fees on the order] or $6 in person).

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

Bikes are not permitted on the field. Please lock your bicycles at the bike rack and then enter the concert.

The HSO asks that you please carpool whenever possible. Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is now handling parking sales for TMMF. A limited number of parking passes for lots on site are available for purchase at each concert for $10 per vehicle (cash only).  Parking passes can only be purchased on the day of the concert starting at 5 PM.  Passes will be sold on a first-come-first served basis to those patrons displaying a valid state issued accessible parking permit. Limited free parking is available in the commuter lots along Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. Convenient and free shuttle service is also available from the Iron Horse Blvd. commuter lot at the intersection of Iron Horse Blvd. and Wilcox Street, as well as from Henry James Memorial Middle School, beginning at 5:00pm each evening. An accessible shuttle will be offered for patrons with disabilities. For questions please email Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center at operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site.

First Aid: First Aid services are available in the southwest corner of the site, near the front of the lawn.  Trained First Responder personnel are also stationed throughout the grounds.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in the First Aid Tent during the concert.  At all other times those items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center Office.

Clean Up: Please help by bagging your trash and depositing it in the available containers.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The HSO presents its annual “Celebrate America!” concert, led by the esteemed Hartford Symphony Orchestra music director Carolyn Kuan.

This patriotic extravaganza, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display.  

Joining the orchestra for this special occasion is the renowned percussionist Ed Fast and his Conga Bop Latin jazz septet, adding their unique flair to the festivities. Ed Fast, a familiar face in the Hartford region and Hartt School alumnus, is a versatile percussionist as comfortable sitting-in with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra as he is touring with premier Broadway roadshows or gigging in bands accompanying big-name favorites. His Conga-Bop septet is known for its simultaneously lighthearted and hard-swinging Latin jazz and will add an extra layer of excitement to the program. 

Details: Entry to the field begins at 6:00 pm. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

Weather Policy: Rain date is Saturday, July 6th.

Seating: Please bring your own seating.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

How to Purchase Tickets: Purchase at hartfordsymphony.org, over the phone at 860.987.5900, or in person at the Bushnell Box Office (166 Capitol AveHartford, CT 06106) Monday – Friday 10am-5pm. Children 12 or under can get the Child rate ($5 over the phone or online [but with other fees on the order] or $6 in person).

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

Bikes are not permitted on the field. Please lock your bicycles at the bike rack and then enter the concert.

The HSO asks that you please carpool whenever possible. Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is now handling parking sales for TMMF. A limited number of parking passes for lots on site are available for purchase at each concert for $10 per vehicle (cash only).  Parking passes can only be purchased on the day of the concert starting at 5 PM.  Passes will be sold on a first-come-first served basis to those patrons displaying a valid state issued accessible parking permit. Limited free parking is available in the commuter lots along Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. Convenient and free shuttle service is also available from the Iron Horse Blvd. commuter lot at the intersection of Iron Horse Blvd. and Wilcox Street, as well as from Henry James Memorial Middle School, beginning at 5:00pm each evening. An accessible shuttle will be offered for patrons with disabilities. For questions please email Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center at operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site.

First Aid: First Aid services are available in the southwest corner of the site, near the front of the lawn.  Trained First Responder personnel are also stationed throughout the grounds.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in the First Aid Tent during the concert.  At all other times those items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center Office.

Clean Up: Please help by bagging your trash and depositing it in the available containers.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Talcott Mountain Music Festival commences with a dazzling tribute to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Starring vocal powerhouses Capathia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw, the performance celebrates Aretha Franklin’s illustrious career with renditions of iconic hits including “Respect,” “Think,” and “A Natural Woman.” The program also features a heartfelt Salute to Ray Charles, capturing the essence of the 1960s golden age of soul music. 

Details: Entry to the field begins at 6:00 pm. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm.

Seating: Please bring your own seating.

How to Purchase Tickets: Purchase at hartfordsymphony.org, over the phone at 860.987.5900, or in person at the Bushnell Box Office (166 Capitol AveHartford, CT 06106) Monday – Friday 10am-5pm.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Accessibility and Parking: On-site paid parking and accessible parking is $10 per vehicle and available first-come first serve on the day of the event. We also offer free parking and accessible shuttle service to and from Henry James Middle School and the commuter lots at the intersection of Wilcox Street and Iron Horse Blvd.

The HSO asks that you please carpool whenever possible. Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center is now handling parking sales for TMMF. A limited number of parking passes for lots on site are available for purchase at each concert for $10 per vehicle (cash only).  Parking passes can only be purchased on the day of the concert starting at 5 PM.  Passes will be sold on a first-come-first served basis to those patrons displaying a valid state issued accessible parking permit. Limited free parking is available in the commuter lots along Iron Horse Blvd. and throughout Simsbury. Convenient and free shuttle service is also available from the Iron Horse Blvd. commuter lot at the intersection of Iron Horse Blvd. and Wilcox Street, as well as from Henry James Memorial Middle School, beginning at 5:00pm each evening. An accessible shuttle will be offered for patrons with disabilities. For questions please email Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center at operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Food & Beverage Policy: Picnics allowed (no hard liquor). Beverage/bar service and food concessions will be available for purchase on site. Pre-orders are available for this event from Pop Over Eatery. Click here to view their Talcott Mountain Music Festival menu.

First Aid: First Aid services are available in the southwest corner of the site, near the front of the lawn.  Trained First Responder personnel are also stationed throughout the grounds.

Lost and Found: Lost and Found is located in the First Aid Tent during the concert.  At all other times those items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center Office.

Clean Up: Please help by bagging your trash and depositing it in the available containers.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Kinetic Ukes Ensemble is the performance arm of Kinetic Ukes. Led by music director, Jim Lenn, they deliver a fun, relaxing vibe to timeless songs, putting a smile on everyone’s face - performers and audience members alike. Following Duke Ellington’s wisdom - “if it sounds good, it IS good” - Kinetic Ukes performs joyful tunes in a variety of genres from classic ukulele songs to modern country, blues and rock. Popular tunes from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s make up the core repertoire, with true oldies (1920’s) and more contemporary songs sprinkled here and there.

The Kinetic Ukes FREE summer concert series is sure to please everyone! Bring your chairs and Sunday afternoon picnics, and feel free to sing along! This event is rain or shine.

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

A free community event hosted by the five Farmington Valley towns of Avon, Canton, Farmington, Granby and Simsbury!

Featuring the music of Nekita Waller, Magic Soul Academy and Damian Curtis Afro-Cuban Jazz Project.

Channel your inner hero at the  full-sized LEGO® Black Panther™ Photo Zone and dabble in the LEGO® Black Brick play zone (courtesy of Lego Systems Inc)!

Quench your thirst with a variety of delicious beers, featuring Connecticut’s first Black female brewmaster! This is your chance to celebrate her historic accomplishment and support a local hero. All this and more!

EVENT OUTLINE:

12:30 : Gates Open

1:00: Ceremonial Opening 

1:10 - 2:30: Nekita Waller Band

2:30 - 3:00: Magic Soul Drumline 

3:00 - 4:30: Damian Curtis Afro-Cuban Jazz Project

3:30 - 3:45: Alisa Bowens-Mercado Salsa Lesson to Damian’s music

4:30 - 4:40: Drawing winners selected

4:40 - 5:00: Magic Soul Drumline

5:00: Closing

“Lift Every Voice and Sing”

By James Weldon Johnson

Lift ev’ry voice and sing,

‘Til earth and heaven ring,

Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;

Let our rejoicing rise

High as the list’ning skies,

Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.

Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,

Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,

Let us march on ’til victory is won.

Stony the road we trod,

Bitter the chastening rod,

Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;

Yet with a steady beat,

Have not our weary feet

Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?

We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,

We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered,

Out from the gloomy past,

‘Til now we stand at last

Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

TENT DESCRIPTIONS

VISIT the 5 Town Tents to see what’s going on and how to plug in.

Stop by the HISTORY tent where the towns’ historical societies will share what we know about enslaved and free black people in our area.

For Kids of all ages, you can experience the world’s largest LEGO® Black Brick Play Zone at the tent just in front of me.  The Kid Zone has more activities including Juneteenth bracelet making, coloring pages, and face painting. Channel your inner hero and snap a selfie at the full-sized LEGO® Black Panther™ Photo Zone, courtesy of LEGO Systems, Inc.

Have a taste for more? Alisa Bowens-Mercado is CT’s first black female brewmaster and owns Rhythm Brewing Co. Stop by her tent to sample her lagers (with ID), also available at the pub.  Later, she will treat us to a brief salsa lesson with the Damian Curtis Afro-Cuban Jazz Project.  

FOOD AND DRINK

You can also fill up with delicious food and drink from: Southern Bell Soul Food, Soulfully Vegan, Ice Cream Dream, and Simsbury Meadows Moonlight Pub.

Meet The Artists:

Nekita Waller

There was never a question that music would be a part of Nekita Waller's life. From her first composition in her daycare class, to performing at the Apollo Theater in High School after winning a state-wide singing competition, to recently performing to several thousand on the New Haven Green at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas opening before Jazz legend Dianne Reeves - music defines Nekita's life.

Raised in Connecticut, Nekita's diverse journey has taken her through chorus and choir groups, musical theater as a child at the Hartford Conservatory, singing Gospel in church, courses at Hartt School of Music, mentoring and singing with local independent artists to opening for artists Ruben Studdard and B.B. King. This experience has exposed Nekita to a variety of musical styles.  

Nekita's live music repertoire includes, pop, Motown, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Tower to Power, Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson, Classic Rock, R&B, Pop, Gospel, Country, and originals. Those who support and enjoy her music are as diverse as the music Nekita performs. From young to old, of all backgrounds, Nekita moves, entertains, and connects with all who listen.

Nekita's original music available on iTunes.

Magic Soul Academy

Magic Soul specializes in “Show Style Marching Percussion and Dance”, a development to soon become “The Heart of Hartford”. Magic Soul is a place for kids and young adults to express themselves through drumming and dancing  Magic Soul allows the student to be part of an organization that will bring them many opportunities. 

Damian Curtis Afro-Cuban Jazz Project

Damian Curtis is a Jazz, Latin Jazz, and Salsa Musician. Pianist. Producer.
He was born into a family of music connoisseurs and at the age of 4 he began his lifelong partnership with the piano. As a teenager Curtis began studying at The Artists Collective, specializing in "The African Diaspora", in the "Upper Albany" part of Hartford as well as Guakia, Inc., specializing in "The Latin Diaspora", which was located in the "South End". Thus began his intensive study of both "jazz" and various forms of "Latin music". 

For high school, Damian attended The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts where he played and studied with the likes of bassists Dave Santoro and Paul "PB" Brown. Upon graduating, he was awarded a full scholarship to continue his studies at the prestigious Hartt School of Music, within what at the time was known as The African-American Music Department, and that has since become The Jackie McLean Jazz Studies Divison. Damian played with McLean’s band for President of the United States, Bill Clinton. 

Damian's life still revolves around his love of music. He spends his time sharing his passion with his 3 children while teaching piano lessons and "hip hop" production to students of all ages. In addition, Damian continues performing with numerous "jazz", "Latin Jazz" and "salsa" bands, as well as producing beats for many acclaimed "hip-hop" artists.

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS:

• All bags subject to search

• There is no ATM on site

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food & Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Beer, soft drinks, wine, and water will be available for purchase. Food trucks will be on site. Picnics allowed.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Mainly Marathons puts on a race series like no other, from the unique course set up to the unparalleled spread of food and drinks to fuel you on your journey, all mixed with a sense of fun and family you just won’t find anywhere else.

You can take part in a full marathon, half marathon, 10k, or 5k.

To register for the event, please click here.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

Looking to make some music with new friends? Want to perform on a stage with an impromptu ensemble? Come join us on June 9th for a community play and sing along! All ages and abilities are welcomed and encouraged to register to attend!

Any acoustic instrument is welcomed! Bring your banjo, your violin, your tuba, your trumpet, or even your paper bag and spoons! Vocalists are also needed! Please note, no power outlets will be available.

Performers should bring their own music stands. Chairs will be provided. A songbook with music spanning several decades will be emailed to performers once registered. There will be opportunity for open mic at the end of the group jam. The event will be coordinated by guest artists Jason Hamilton of MeadowBlue and Tom LeClerc!

This concert is also open to the public to attend! Gates will open at 12:00pm.

To receive a song book and reserve your spot on stage, please send an email to sarah@simsburymeadowsmusic.com with FRCJ in the subject line.

Event Details: This is a free event to participate in and attend.

Jason Hamilton

Jason Hamilton plays guitar, banjo and sings as one half of the duo, Meadow Blue. He describes the music as Cosmic Country Acoustic Folk Rock.

Tom LeClerc

I have been playing guitar since High School (sort of) ... I played clarinet in grammar school as part of a marching band and learned to read music. I didn’t enjoy it as it is hard to sing when playing a clarinet! But I love music, so I took up guitar in high school and played in a small band with friends. Then I got married, had kids and all that ended. :-)

When I married my wife, she was active in the church and I was “voluntold” to help the choir sing and play. So, I did and began doing music both in the regular choir and in the “contemporary Christian” choir playing guitar. I did a lot of music back then and that honestly got me back to enjoying it and was once again addicted.

After I retired from work several years ago, I started playing Ukulele after I took a class at the local library. I picked a Baritone ukulele because the chord structures are the same as a guitar. And it was fun. Can’t play a uke without smiling!

Since then, I have joined 2 other Uke groups and really began to practice and play a lot, doing open microphone gigs and now running a monthly “Uke Hoot” (which is a public “Jam” with ukuleles, guitars, banjos, harmonica’s, kazoo’s, you name it.)

I met Sarah (Programs Manager at Simsbury Meadows) and have worked with her on the Nutmeg Ukulele Festival which will once again return in 2024. Nutmeg (or, as we like to call it, NUF for short), has been VERY successful. Last year was our first attempt at the Farmington Valley Community Jam and because of its success, it will be returning this year!

Hope to see you there!

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests.

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Little Mermen are the ultimate Disney tribute concert for Disney fanatics of all ages. The band’s repertoire covers nearly a century of musical canon, including favorites from The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Frozen and Encanto. The group performs in full costume with band members dressing up as characters from the films. They tour nationally, having recently shared festival stages with Stevie Nicks, Green Day and Joan Jett. The Little Mermen invite you to be their guest for a magical experience jam-packed with nostalgic fun & rockin’ sing-alongs!

Event Details: General Admission is $25. Admission plus a Meet and Greet is $35. Children 2 and under enter for free!

• ALL tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests. 

Event is rain or shine.

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.

The Little Mermen are the ultimate Disney tribute concert for Disney fanatics of all ages. The band’s repertoire covers nearly a century of musical canon, including favorites from The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Frozen and Encanto. The group performs in full costume with band members dressing up as characters from the films. They tour nationally, having recently shared festival stages with Stevie Nicks, Green Day and Joan Jett. The Little Mermen invite you to be their guest for a magical experience jam-packed with nostalgic fun & rockin’ sing-alongs!

Event Details: General Admission is $25. Admission plus a Meet and Greet is $35. Children 2 and under enter for free!

• ALL tickets are NON-REFUNDABLE

• All Events are RAIN OR SHINE!

• All bags subject to search.

• There is no ATM on site. 

• No shirt, no shoes = no entry. This is for all the safety of all guests. 

Strictly Prohibited on the Grounds: Smoking, hard liquor, drugs, ball playing or other sports equipment, pets, fireworks, sparklers, firearms or any other incendiary device, radios, boom-boxes or other stereo equipment, solicitation or unauthorized concessions or handouts, tents, tarps and large tables, lewdness, drunkenness or other inappropriate behavior.  Audio and video recording and flash photography are prohibited during the performance.

Lost and Found: Any Lost and Found items will be available at the Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center office. To inquire about lost items, please reach out to operations@simsburymeadowsmusic.com.

Accessibility and Parking: Free on-site parking (including accessible parking) available at a first-come-first-serve basis. Additional parking lots along Iron Horse Blvd will also be available for use. To access handicapped parking you will need a state handicapped permit on your vehicle.

Food and Beverage Policy: No outside alcohol. Picnics welcome.

Restrooms: Portable toilets are located on site.