Events

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Let Freedom Ring! — January 1, 2026

Kick off America’s 250th birthday with a moment of pride, unity, and celebration! Join us on Thursday, January 1st, as Wallingford rings in both the New Year and our nation’s Semiquincentennial.

Gather at the Wallingford Historical Society, 180 South Main Street, for the ceremonial ringing of the bells—a powerful tribute to the spirit of 1776 and the enduring promise of liberty.

Let’s make it ring across Wallingford! We invite churches, schools, civic organizations, and residents to participate by ringing bells at the same time—from steeples, porches, or even smartphones. However you do it, help us fill the air with a chorus of freedom and mark the start of a year-long celebration of America’s journey.

Start 2026 with heart, history, and hometown pride—let freedom ring!

Red, White & YOU Parade – Saturday, June 20, 2026 10 am-12 pm.

Step into a world of red, white, and blue as Wallingford hosts a patriotic parade! Picture this: floats adorned with Americana flair created by our very own local businesses, nonprofits, community members, and talented student groups. Each float a testament to our shared heritage and bright future.

But wait, there’s more excitement! Our youngest patriots are invited to join the Kids’ Bike Parade. Children can deck out their bikes in dazzling decorations, and parents can even spruce up strollers and wagons to join in the fun. It’s a colorful procession of laughter and creativity that captures the heart of our community.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of history in the making. Bring your family and friends for a day of unity, celebration, and unforgettable memories.

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details on this one-of-a-kind celebration!

Shop, Sip & Stroll – Saturday, June 20, 1-5 p.m.

Don’t dash after the parade—stay and celebrate the best of Wallingford!

Your presence supports our local businesses, fuels our creative community, and makes this day one for the history books. Let’s honor 250 years of America by enjoying the best of our town, together.

After the last float rolls by and the final notes of patriotic music fade, the celebration is just getting started! Keep the spirit alive in Downtown Wallingford with our Shop, Sip & Stroll event—an afternoon of small-town charm, creative flair, and community pride.

From 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., take a leisurely stroll through our open-air Art Show, featuring incredible works by talented local artists. From paintings to photography, you’ll be inspired by the creativity rooted right here in our own backyard.

Shop the Sidewalk Sale! Area merchants will line the streets with special deals, seasonal finds, and patriotic flair. It’s the perfect opportunity to support your favorite local shops and discover a few new ones, too.

Dine & Unwind at one of Wallingford’s many cafés, restaurants, or pubs. Grab a bite, raise a toast, and soak in the festive atmosphere with friends and family.

American Dance Revolution! – Saturday, June 20, 6-9pm

After a full day of parades, art, food, and fun, there’s still one more celebration to keep the energy high and the good times rolling! Head uptown to Simpson Court for a high-spirited Block Dance under the stars—the perfect finale to a day steeped in patriotism and community pride.

Dance into the evening with crowd favorite DJ Johnny Roz, spinning feel-good tunes for all ages—from classic hits to current chart-toppers. Whether you’re five or ninety-five, this is your time to move, groove, and make memories.

Bring your appetite! Local eateries and vendors will be serving up great food and cold drinks, so you can eat, sip, and dance the night away in true hometown style.

This is more than a dance—it’s a celebration of freedom, friendship, and fun in the heart of Wallingford.

Porch Beats & Patriotic Seats: Wallingford’s PorchFest – Sunday, 12:00–5:00 p.m. | Uptown Wallingford

Bring your lawn chairs, walking shoes, and patriotic spirit for Porch Beats & Patriotic Seats—Wallingford’s own PorchFest! From front stoops to shaded porches, local bands and musicians will fill the uptown streets with the sounds of country, rock, jazz, and folk. Each performance space will be decked out in Americana décor, from bunting to flags, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for this open-air community concert.

As you wander from porch to porch, enjoy the diversity of local talent and soak in the hometown charm. Whether you’re dancing in the street or tapping your toes on the curb, this is Sunday done the American way!

Red, White & Hue: WACA Art Show – Sunday, 12:00–5:00 p.m. | Uptown Wallingford (Alongside PorchFest)

Celebrate the colorful creativity of our community at Red, White & Hue, the Wallingford Arts & Culture Association’s Semiquincentennial Art Show. Held in conjunction with PorchFest, this open-air gallery experience will showcase works from local artists across mediums—from painting and photography to mixed media and sculpture.

As music floats through the air, take time to explore the visual artistry that makes our town vibrant. Art and music unite in this one-of-a-kind experience that honors America’s creative spirit—and Wallingford’s own talent.

Freedom & Fun: Family Day on the Green -Sunday, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Choate Campus

Wrap up a weekend of celebration with a big dose of family fun! Kids of all ages can enjoy an afternoon of face painting, magical entertainers, and stilt walkers—all coordinated by the Wallingford Parks & Recreation Department and the Wallingford Family YMCA.

Craving a sweet treat? Food and ice cream trucks will be on-site to keep everyone happy and well-fed as they enjoy the festivities.

This event is the perfect finale to a Semiquincentennial weekend packed with pride, joy, and community spirit. Bring the kids, bring your energy—and let’s end the celebration on a high note!