Summer kickoff draws more than 4,100 visitors to downtown New London despite rain

NEW LONDON — The second annual Summer Kickoff – Night Market once again transformed downtown New London into a vibrant gathering place on Friday, June 5, welcoming more than 4,100 visitors for an evening filled with live music, shopping, food, family activities, and community spirit.

While periods of rain challenged the event throughout the evening, the weather did little to dampen the enthusiasm of attendees, vendors, performers, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who came together to make the event a tremendous success.

Hosted by Fox Communities Credit Union and facilitated by the New London Area Chamber of Commerce, the Summer Kickoff showcased the power of local collaboration. The event brought together area businesses, nonprofit organizations, food vendors, artists, entertainers, public safety personnel, city staff, and volunteers, all working toward a common goal: creating a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike.

"This event is proof of what can happen when a community comes together," said April Kopitzke, Executive Director of the New London Area Chamber of Commerce. "Despite the weather, thousands of people still came downtown to support local businesses, enjoy the entertainment, and spend time together. The amount of teamwork that went into this event was incredible, and we couldn't be more grateful."

The evening featured Nashville Pipeline as the headlining entertainment, along with dozens of marketplace vendors, diverse food options, family-friendly activities, live street performers, a kids fun zone, fire breathers, stilt walkers, a beer garden, and the popular hot air balloon glow experience.

The Summer Kickoff continues to grow as one of New London's signature community events, drawing visitors from throughout the region while supporting local businesses and generating excitement for the summer season.

Chamber officials extended their sincere appreciation to the event sponsors, volunteers, vendors, entertainers, city departments, public safety personnel, and attendees who helped make the event possible. Special thanks were also extended to the many organizations and individuals who remained committed to the event despite the uncertain weather conditions.

"Events like this don't happen because of one organization," Kopitzke added. "They happen because an entire community shows up. We are incredibly fortunate to live and work in a place where so many people are willing to roll up their sleeves, adapt when challenges arise, and work together to create something special."

Planning is already underway for the 2027 Summer Kickoff, which will return on the first Friday in June. For additional information about the Summer Kickoff and other upcoming community events, visit the New London Area Chamber of Commerce online at newlondonchamber.com.