Commonly referred to as “the highway from New York to Massachusetts,” the great state of Connecticut offers a plethora of hip-hop-related festivals and events for all to enjoy this summer season. From concerts to open mics to even a Hypefest festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the year’s hottest months.
Interested in Connecticut’s hottest up-and-comers in hip-hop or spoken word? Intrigued by amazing concerts and summer block parties? Well, the Respect My Region fam has got you covered. Tap in below for Connecticut’s best Summer Events!
Connecticut Summer Events & Music Festivals
1. Summer Block Party Presents Jodeci & SWV
North Carolina’s famous RnB quartet is back on tour this summer with the east coast trio SWV. On Saturday, August 5th, in Bridgeport, CT, this block party promises to be an exciting time for all ages, complete with delicate production and exquisite vocals.
2. Open Mic ~ Music ~ Poetry ~ Hip Hop ~ Jazz
Swing by the “pizza capital of the world,” New Haven, CT, for an evening slice and to watch some of the state’s brightest up-and-coming talent display their skills at a friendly open mic event. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, jazz, poetry, or spoken word, this lively Connecticut staple promises to satisfy all of your creative cravings.
3. 860 YOUTH HIP-HOP CAMP
Head over to the quaint town of Bloomfield, CT, to witness the next generation’s introduction to hip-hop. From activities in dance, spoken word, poetry, graffiti, visual arts, African percussion, and much more, this youth camp has it all. For kids, this is hands down one of the best Connecticut summer events.
4. Legends Beats and Grooves, 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop Part II
This July 23rd, Westport, Connecticut-held event is a hip-hop enthusiast’s dream. Between a panel discussion, Q&A section, and several DJ performances from legendary acts like The Original Jazzy Jay and DJ Slick Vic, this celebration of hip-hop’s 50 years promises to be a smashing success.
5. DJ Drama Concert
Get ready to scream “Gansta Grillz” with thousands of other passionate attendees because the iconic DJ Drama is making his way on tour to the state’s capital (Hartford, CT). Whether you’re a fan of his classic mixtapes or his latest album, I’M REALLY LIKE THAT; this larger-than-life concert promises to provide everything for a true hip-hop fanatic.
6. JPEGMAFIA w/ Danny Brown
This next Connecticut concert delves into more of the experimental lane of the genre. SCARING THE HOES rappers JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown travel to New Haven, CT, to tear up the nutmeg state through the duo’s eccentric vibes and peculiar performance choices.
Image via AWAL
7. HypeFest 2023 Hip Hop Festival
The 10th anniversary of Connecticut’s most hype-filled rap festival is back! Expect over 2,500 attendees for this year’s star-studded lineup, which includes famed acts like Styles P of the Lox and Mr Cheeks of the Lost Boyz for this highly anticipated August 27th Connecticut Summer event.
8. Hamden Summer Concert Series
DJ Buddha LuvJonz and Herman Ham Group bring their decades of collective experience together on Friday, July 21st. This concert will be an absolute blast through the pair’s unique blend of electronic music, hip-hop, and R&B, combining for a serious party in Hamden’s most famous park.
9. 50 Cent: The Final Lap Tour
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of 50 Cent’s classic debut album, Get Rich Or Die Tryin’, the iconic New York-born rapper is hitting the road with extraordinary guests Busta Rhymes and Jeremih. This very well could be the dopest option out of all our picks for hottest Connecticut summer events.
10. Sundress & Sneakers Day Party DJ’S Funk Flex
Who doesn’t love a mid-summer day party with music spun by some of the nation’s best DJs? Stop by New Haven, CT, on July 22nd to witness the acclaimed DJ Funk Flex, DJ Ty Boogie, DJ Billy Busch, and DJ Rob Nice play R&B, Hip Hop, Reggae, Afrobeats, and more!
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