Essex Parks and Recreation

Announcements & News

Summer is shaping up to be another exciting season with the Town of Essex Park and Recreation Department! From children’s camps and community events to concerts, celebrations, and family activities, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy this summer.

Our 2026 Summer Camp program is already generating excitement with themed weeks including Party in the USA, Christmas in July, Shark Week, Carnival Week, and Survivor Week. Campers can look forward to crafts, games, field trips, special guests, spirit days, tie-dye, retro dance parties, and Friday Field Days at Grove Street Park. Families continue to appreciate the program’s welcoming atmosphere, affordable pricing, and focus on creating meaningful summer memories for children entering Kindergarten through Grade 6.

We are also proud to continue offering camp scholarships to local families with support from community partners and donors, helping to ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate in summer fun.

In addition to camp programming, Essex Park and Recreation is excited to present the 2026 Summer Concert Series, taking place on Wednesday evenings from July 8 through August 12 at Main Street Park and Ivoryton Village Green. The lineup will feature a variety of live music performances, including the Middletown Symphonic Band, Southern Voice, Bloomer, Mitch Nelson, Chris Marra Band, and Local Honey. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors to relax, picnic, and enjoy summer evenings together in the heart of Essex.

Community celebrations continue throughout the season as Essex celebrates America 250 with special events, including the Red, White & Blue Community Decorating Contest and a Family Concert Celebration at Ivoryton Village Green on August 19^th at 6 pm, featuring music by Southern Voice, a Photo Booth, and a face painter.

Whether you are attending a concert, visiting one of our parks, participating in camp, or joining us for a community event, Essex Park and Recreation looks forward to another summer filled with connection, fun, and community spirit. For program information and registration, visit Essex Park and Recreation or contact the department at 860-767-4340.

Dear Community Members,

The Essex Semi-Quincentennial (Semi Q) Committee is excited to invite you to the Essex Celebrates America 250 Family Concert Celebration on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Ivoryton Village Green.

This free family-friendly event will feature live music by Southern Voice, along with an evening filled with music, fun, and community spirit as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary together.

Families and friends are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner while enjoying:
• Live Music by Southern Voice
• Face Painting
• Patriotic Photo Booth
• Family-Friendly Entertainment
• Commemorative Cake Dessert

We hope you will join us for this special evening as Essex comes together to celebrate community, history, and hometown pride.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Mary Ellen Barnes
Town of Essex Park & Recreation
On behalf of the Essex Semi-Quincentennial Committee