MERIDEN, CT — The city of Meriden is preparing to welcome tens of thousands of visitors this weekend for the 45th annual Daffodil Festival, a signature two-day spring event held at Hubbard Park.
Organizers expect as many as 75,000 attendees throughout the weekend.
The festival, operated entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers, has grown steadily over the decades and is now a staple attraction for families and visitors from across Connecticut and New England.
Hubbard Park, known for its daffodil-filled grounds, has hosted the festival since its inception.
Organizers say the event has evolved significantly from its early days. In the beginning, the festivities included a simple picnic and a crowning ceremony.
Over the years, the event expanded to include three live entertainment stages, a carnival, and a bustling crafts fair.
The festival offers free admission and features a variety of attractions, including rides, games, local artisan booths, and extensive food offerings. While food trucks will be on-site, most food is served by local nonprofit groups. These community organizations rely on the weekend as a major fundraiser, with proceeds supporting their year-round programming.
The event begins Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and continues Sunday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Due to high attendance and limited space, there will be no parking available at Hubbard Park.
However, free parking and shuttle service will be provided from the Meriden Mall and Lincoln Middle School throughout the weekend.
More information on shuttle schedules and event logistics is available on the city’s website.
