Norwalk boat show returns to Norwalk Cove Marina with new tours and education

Returning September 24–27, the Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show Pairs Hundreds of Boats and Boat Deals with New Guided Experiences, Hands-On Boating Education, Free Boat Rides and Family Fun on Long Island Sound

The Discover Boating Norwalk Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive, returns to Norwalk Cove Marina from September 24 through September 27, 2026. Marking its 50th year, the fall event features hundreds of boats, sales deals, and expanded educational programs on Long Island Sound. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

New features for 2026 include Captain’s Cove, an interactive hub offering free skill clinics, docking lessons, and a help desk staffed by experts from the Annapolis School of Seamanship. Attendees can also register for new 30-to-45-minute guided tours, including Boating 101, Engine Alley, On-Water Lifestyle, and Meet Your Match. Space for each tour is limited to 12 guests, and advance registration is required online.

Visitors can take free power boat rides on Long Island Sound courtesy of Freedom Boat Club, or board a free boat tour to the historic Green’s Ledge Lighthouse hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association. The show also features free kayak and stand-up paddleboard demos from the Norwalk Sailing School at Try It Cove. Children can build toy boats, try paddle boats in a mini pool, and visit a Touch Tank hosted by Brien McMahon’s Marine Science Academy.

For prospective buyers and current owners, the show offers side-by-side brand comparisons, an expanded Engine Alley with top manufacturers, and a new Get Outfitted retail area featuring Goose Hummock Shop. Licensed captains will lead paid, hands-on boating courses covering navigation, boat handling, and docking through the Progressive Boat School. Guests can also visit the Water Club Lounge or the SandBar for live music and local food trucks.

Automotive sponsors are providing interactive vehicle experiences throughout the weekend. Toyota is hosting towing demonstrations, a display of the 2026 Tundra i-FORCE MAX, and test drives for the Tacoma and Land Cruiser on Thursday and Friday. On Saturday and Sunday, BMW will offer test drives for select models, including the X7, X5 PHEV, iX, 750e PHEV, i4, and X3, alongside a display of the M5 Touring.

Tickets are available at BoatShowNorwalk.com for $20 for adults and $10 for teens ages 13 to 17, while children 12 and under enter free with a paid adult. First responders, military members, and veterans receive free admission on opening day, Thursday, September 24, with valid identification. Free parking is available at Calf Pasture Beach, and a free water taxi on VHF Channel 68 is available for attendees arriving by boat.

Don’t miss

• Aviation and aerospace workers receive free admission during American Mural Project’s September line-up
• Pipes and Cider Festival returns to Palmer Warner House in East Haddam
• Goose frontman Rick Mitarotonda joins new collaborative group Rainbow Body

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Learn to cook this fall with AMG Catering & Events

Upgrade your autumn entertaining with AMG Catering & Events’ fall cooking class series. This season’s schedule features fun new themes—including Dolly Parton favorites and game-day tailgating—alongside popular returning favorites like Oktoberfest and Sushi & Dumplings. Plus, get ready for the festive season with specialized classes focused on Friendsgiving dishes and holiday appetizers paired with cocktails.

Registration is live! Explore the complete class schedule below to secure your spot.

9/30 – Doing it Dolly – Dolly Parton inspired
10/7 – Octoberfest
10/15 – Elevate Your Tailgate
10/21 – Sushi & Dumplings
11/18 – Friendsgiving
12/1- Holiday Apps with Cocktail

To register, click here. Gift certificates are also available by clicking here.

August events at Fairfield Theatre Company

8/27 – FTC Happy Hour w/ Sascodead
8/28 – FTC Yacht Rock dance party
8/29 – Jackie Greene
8/29 – Jonatha Brooke

Click here for more information & order tickets.

August events at PeoplesBank Arena

8/28 – Reggae in Action

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Indulge in Keksi gourmet cookies, featuring classic flavors such as chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, as well as new monthly creations. Made with the highest quality ingredients, each bite is a delicious treat. Perfect for any cookie lover!

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Norwalk boat show returns to Norwalk Cove Marina with new tours and education