New London is making final preparations for the event that will replace Sailfest this year. Sailfest had been an annual fixture in the city for 45 years until it was canceled this year due to budget constraints.
‘Celebrate New London’ will be held July 12, including food and music throughout downtown. It replaces what had been a two-day event.
“This is a new approach to our annual summer festival for families, and I’m thrilled with the direction our organizers have taken,” said Mayor Michael Passero. “We’re excited to celebrate the people and entrepreneurs who make New London the region’s center for culture.”
The city says the new event will once again end with a fireworks show sponsored by the Mashantucket Pequot tribe. Billed as the largest fireworks display in Connecticut, it was also the traditional culmination to the Sailfest event.
“For more than 30 years, The Mashantucket Pequot Fireworks Extravaganza has been a cherished family tradition, and the highlight of the summer for the thousands of visitors who come together to celebrate, connect, and create unforgettable memories,” said Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation.
The new format is a collaboration between the City of New London, the New London Cultural District, Garde Arts Center, and local businesses. It will feature two main stages at Parade Plaza and Custom House Pier.
Before COVID-related disruptions, a 2018 economic impact study found Sailfest generated about $58 million for the region over the festival weekend.
