Fun Ways to Celebrate Labor Day Locally

Labor Day Weekend — the unofficial end to the summer season. Americans traditionally mark the occasion with outdoor picnics and parties, lazy afternoons at the beach and, most of all, weekend getaways. Many families pack their bags and hit the road, using the three-day break from work and school to get escape their usual surroundings. 

But with tighter budgets this year, many are planning to stay home next weekend and, therefore, looking for a few activities to enjoy right here in Fairfield County. Luckily, Patch has come up with a few ideas for everyone, including music fans, theater buffs and book lovers.  

Fairfield

Jazz, funk and alternative rock blend together when the Rustic Overtunes play and on Friday, Sept. 2, they’ll be performing at the Fairfield Theatre Center. Frank Viele & Manhattan Project will open the show in support of their latest album “Neon Lights.” The tickets are $10 each and the show starts at 7 p.m.

Redding

It’s all about tradition during Labor Day Weekend with Mark Twain Library’s 51st annual Book Fair. Wake up early on Friday and head to the Redding Community Center for “Early Buying” between 9-10 a.m. with a $10 admission fee. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., receive free admission. Book prices are as marked. The fair continues throughout the weekend with half-priced books on Sunday and a “$5 a bag” sale on Monday between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Rowayton

Head out to Bayley Beach on Monday, Sept. 5 for the close of RCA’s Summer Music Festival. The concert will feature world beat band Entrain and rock band Liquorcake. The music starts at 5:30 p.m. and the rain location is at Rowayton School. 

Stamford 

Why not start the weekend off right with a sunset sail on the Long Island Sound? SoundWaters will be offering a Sunset Sail on their 80' schooner from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Ideal for couples, tickets are $30 each and the schooner leaves from Brewer Yacht Haven Marina. Attendees should bring their own food and beverages. Looking for more of a family atmosphere? Soundwaters is also offering an Afternoon Sail all weekend long from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. for ages 5 and up. 

If you’re more in the mood for rides, food and fun, head to the St. Leo Parish Fair at 24 Roxbury Road. The festival is free and features a raffle, bingo, a Clam Booth and pizza fritta, a local favorite. The fair will be open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m until Saturday, Sept. 3.

Labor Day weekend is also an ideal time to give back to your community. On Monday at 9 a.m., The Center Women of the Jewish Community Center are sponsoring their fourth annual 5K Family Fun Run/Walk to raise money to support JumpStart, the center’s preschool program for children with special needs. Fun field races will be held for the kids after the official walk. Registration ends on Aug. 29. 

Westport

Looking to attend a play? If you haven’t seen “Suddenly Last Summer” at the Westport Country Playhouse, now might be the time. Written by famous playwright Tennessee Williams, the play depicts what happens following the mysterious death of a handsome poet. There will be an 8 p.m. performance on Friday, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. performances on Saturday and a 3 p.m. performance on Sunday. Tickets start at $35 each. 

Wilton

Do you love pizza? Steel drum music? If you love both, you’re in luck because on Monday, Sept. 5, Wilton Steel, a Wilton Community Steel Drum Band, will be playing for patrons who dine on the patio at Wilton Pizza and Pasta between 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Be sure to call ahead of time to confirm the performance in case of inclement weather.