SHELTON — Celebrate Shelton is bringing three days of food, music, shopping, family-friendly entertainment and community connection to Veterans Memorial Park this weekend, Sept. 18–20 for Food Trucks on the River: Fall Edition.
The expanded three-day festival will feature 40+ food trucks, local artisans and vendors, a mobile bar, live music, family programming and the inaugural “Next Up Live: CT Rising Sounds Emerging Artist Competition,” a new platform created to spotlight Connecticut’s emerging musical talent.
On Saturday, Sept. 19 and Sunday, Sept. 20, ten of Connecticut’s most promising emerging artists will take the stage, each performing a live set as they compete to become the first-ever Next Up Live: CT Rising Sounds Champion.
The winning artist or act will receive a career-building prize package that includes:
- A featured performance on the Celebrate Shelton Main Stage at a major 2027 event
- A complimentary recording session at The Recording Den
- A booking opportunity at Park City Music Hall
- A live, on-air interview with WOW Radio 97.7 FM
THREE DAYS OF FOOD, MUSIC & COMMUNITY
Beyond Next Up Live, Food Trucks on the River: Fall Edition offers something for everyone throughout the weekend.
Festival-goers can enjoy more than 40 food trucks throughout the three days, featuring a wide range of cuisines, snacks and sweet treats, along with an Artisan Market showcasing local makers, artists and small businesses.
A mobile pop-up bar will feature New Belgium brews and hard-charged teas, Bad Sons canned cocktails and LoveLou Wines.
Families can enjoy a Family Fun Zone featuring Sensory Play Center activities for all ages, Artistry Creativity Studio Mosaic Art Tile workshops and a performance by The Singing Gnome. On Sunday, Laser Tag On-The-Go will bring an added dose of adventure to the park.
The festival’s live music lineup features regional headliner Upstate, with direct support from Charlotte Roth & The Big Drama and Brother Other.
Saturday will also feature Cosmic Jibaros, while DJ Doey Joey will keep the energy going on Sunday with a special Kids Dance Party.
A WEEKEND THAT GIVES BACK
A $5 suggested donation is encouraged to help support future Celebrate Shelton events, to ensure they remain free to all attendees as well as to continue the Celebrate Shelton Community Impact & Opportunity Scholarship with the Boys & Girls Club of Lower Naugatuck Valley.
“Events like this are about more than a great weekend,” said Skrtic said. “They are about investing in our community, supporting local businesses, giving artists a platform, creating opportunities for young people and bringing people together. Every suggested donation helps us continue that work.”
Tables and chairs will be available throughout the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and/or lawn chairs to guarantee seating.
EVENT DETAILS
Food Trucks on the River: Fall Edition
Friday, September 18: 5:00–10:00 PM
Saturday, September 19: 11:00 AM–8:00 PM
Sunday, September 20: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Park
38 Canal Street East
Shelton, Connecticut
Admission is free. A $5 suggested donation is encouraged.
For event information, schedules, vendors and updates, visit