Looking for something fun to do on Father’s Day? Ridgefield will once again fill with the sound of live music as Make Music Day returns on June 21. Hosted by the Ridgefield Arts Council, this free, one-day music celebration invites musicians and audiences alike to experience Ridgefield as a town-wide stage.
Make Music Day is Ridgefield Arts Council’s signature annual music event, and 2026 marks Ridgefield’s eighth year participating in the worldwide celebration. Musicians of every style and skill level—and local shops, restaurants, house porches, businesses, and community spaces willing to host them—are encouraged to sign up and become part of the day’s town-wide soundtrack.
The event traces its roots to Paris, where it began on June 21, 1982, as Fête de la Musique. The idea was simple: music should be everywhere and accessible to everyone. Amateur and professional musicians alike were invited to perform in public spaces, transforming cities into open-air stages. More than four decades later, the celebration has spread to more than 2,000 cities worldwide and is recognized as one of the largest annual music events on the planet. In the United States alone, the celebration continues to grow. On June 21, 2025, 147 cities hosted 5,471 free concerts as part of the nationwide event.
Ridgefield has enthusiastically joined that movement, establishing a vibrant local tradition. Building on last year’s success—when 17 venues hosted more than 80 performances featuring over 100 musicians—this year’s event invites even more performers, venues, and music lovers to participate.
“Make Music Day in Ridgefield provides the ideal venue for local musicians, with an enthusiastic community that comes out to discover new performers and support seasoned acts,” said musician Laurel Aronian. “It’s an awesome event—and I even received future gig opportunities after performing.”
On June 21, music will pop up throughout town. Ballard Park, the Ridgefield Library, Keeler Tavern Museum, First Congregational Church, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, Town Hall, Copps Hill Commons, and numerous local shops and restaurants will host performances throughout the day, creating welcoming stages where audiences can encounter everything from classical and jazz to folk, rock, and acoustic music simply by strolling through town.
“Performing in town is an absolute blast,” said musician Daniel Madeson. “Every year the turnout grows, and the energy from people stopping to listen gives performers energy
right back.”
At Ballard Park, bands from Sugar Hollow Tap Room—Mojo, Sugar House, and Chowder, among others, will help keep the energy high and the crowd moving. Families can enjoy spontaneous performers, interactive music-making, and plenty of opportunities to participate, creating a festive and memorable Father’s Day outing for all ages.
Whether you are a devoted music fan or simply looking for a lively way to spend the day with family and friends, Make Music Ridgefield offers a uniquely joyful experience. The event highlights Ridgefield’s vibrant arts community while celebrating the idea that everyone has a place in making music.
“Make Music Day was a wonderful opportunity for the Ridgefield High School String Quartet to share our music with the community,” said Claudia Padilla. “We love performing together, and playing for our town makes the experience especially meaningful.”
Mark your calendars and join the celebration on June 21. Bring the family, explore performances across town, and discover the unexpected joy of live music around every corner.
The Ridgefield Arts Council presents Make Music Day to generate attention for Ridgefield’s vibrant arts community with the support of the Connecticut State Office of
the Arts.
For more information or questions, contact Ridgefield Arts Council Co-Chairperson Jennifer Dineen at ridgefield@makemusicday.org. For more information on artist and venue registration, go to www.makemusicday.org/ridgefield. •
