Black Bear Music Fest logo displaying 7th Annual
August 14-16, 2026
at the Harwinton Fairgrounds in Harwinton, CT!
Join Our Newsletter

Connecticut's Own Black Bear Music Fest

Now in a new location and season, Black Bear Music Fest returns August 14–16, 2026 at the Harwinton Fairgrounds for its seventh year!

The weekend features over 50 bands on four stages, covering rock, blues, folk, and bluegrass. With on-site camping, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect way to close out summer in Connecticut.

Musicians performing at Black Bear Music Fest

Take it from our family members

Here’s what past attendees had to say about their time at Black Bear.

This festival was incredibly well organized, the talent was exceptional, and the late night stage sessions were magical - the Orange Tarp - the Jamboree Jam Tent - there were stages everywhere.  Awesome food trucks and our kids loved it as well!
Facebook profile image for customer testimonial
Kevin
Reviewed on Facebook
A magical world for both adults and children. Between the engaging workshops, activities, vendors, food, and music emanating from every corner of the grounds, anywhere you go is an experience!  Complete festival vibe with friendly characters and people helping people. Can’t wait for next year!
Facebook profile image for customer testimonial
Jessica
Reviewed on Facebook
It's the best festival...Great music, amazing vendors, the staff is top notch. Workshops, jam sessions, family activities, Black Bear has got it all!! This was my 4th year and I’m already looking forward to next year!! Highly recommend.
Facebook profile image for customer testimonial
Melissa
Reviewed on Facebook
The sound and staging are very professional and the staff and volunteers are helpful.  They have a nice array of food vendors.  I will be going every year, for sure.
Facebook profile image for customer testimonial
Steven
Reviewed on Facebook
The energy was positive and uplifting.  The music unmatched.  I am looking forward to this year's Black Bear festival and making many more memories.
Facebook profile image for customer testimonial
Matthew
Reviewed on Facebook
These are just a few of our guests reviews!
Read More

50+ Bands on 4 Stages
for 3 Days of Music!

Discover new favorites, reunite with fest family, and soak up the sounds of Americana under open skies—raw blues riffs, rebel rock, backwoods folk, and high-octane bluegrass from breakout acts and beloved names alike.

Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest
Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest
Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest
Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest
Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest
Musicians performing on stage at Black Bear Music Fest

Choose Your Experience

Stay for the whole weekend or drop in when it works for you. Camp on site with your tent or RV, or head home each night and return for the next round. However you fest, we’ve got a pass that fits.

An array of ticket options showing tent camping, rv camping, and day passes to Black Bear Music Fest
And hey - kids 16 and under are free!
When accompanied with a ticketed adult.
Get Your Tickets!

Food Trucks, Vendors, Workshops & Activities

Black Bear isn’t just about the music—it’s a full weekend experience. Grab a bite from local food trucks, shop handcrafted goods, and jump into workshops and activities happening throughout the day. Whether you’re coming with kids, friends, or flying solo, there’s something here for everyone.

A vendor serving guests at Black Bear Music Fest
Guests sit around a fire at Black Bear Music Fest
A workshop teaching musicians at Black Bear Music Fest
Guests enjoying a painting activity at Black Bear Music Fest
Guests enjoying a jam at Black Bear Music Fest
Friends having a good time at their campsite at Black Bear Music Fest
Kids hula hooping at Black Bear Music Fest
A vendor at Black Bear Music Fest