Sound on Sound Music Festival is returning to Bridgeport, Connecticut for their second year. Taking place at Seaside Park, this festival will run Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1, 2023 and will feature artists big and small. From Philly artists, Snacktime, to Red Hot Chili Peppers, this festival continues to have something for everyone. Other artists performing include Hozier, Mt. Joy, Sammy Rae & The Friends, Alanis Morissette, Trey Anastasio Band, and, Connecticut Native, John Mayer.
Last year, the festival did face brief backlash after their first day proved to be a challenging one; many people complaining that it wasn’t organized as well as it could’ve been. They had worked overnight to address the publics concerns, which made for a much better day 2. This year, they’ve still taken into account all of the criticisms from last year and have improved it even more. Keeping the tradition of no overlapping sets, they opted to downsize from two stages to one, allowing audience members the optimal sight and audio experience for all sets, not just the half that take place on the stage in front of them. This also brings an expansion of the grounds, allowing them to block off specific areas for blankets and chairs with the General Audience tickets, mark specific walkways, and overall easier movement throughout the festival. They’ve also added a ferris wheel as a part of the experience, which will offer gorgeous views of Long Island Sound and the stage.
What didn’t change about this festival was their commitment to incorporating local business for food and drink. The Wine Grove and Craft Beer Hall will be returning, as well as many of the food vendors that were there last year. This year, Sound on Sound will feature over 40 food vendors, 28 of which are local to Connecticut! The food will mostly be centralized to one location, minimizing the need to walk through the majority of festival grounds to scope out options.
As far as ticket packages go, they are very similar to last year. They range from two types of GA tickets, to regular VIP tickets, VIP tickets with a special viewing deck and “club feel”, and even a special viewing suite booking for the weekend. Just like a standard music festival, tickets are deemed certain sitting areas, bathroom areas, complimentary Wi-Fi, and in some cases, complimentary drinks and re-entry privileges.
Located right on Long Island Sound and a 10 minute shuttle ride from the train station, this continues to be the most ideal location for a music festival in Connecticut. I’m glad that Sound on Sound was able to return this year, as it helps to elevate the music scene in Connecticut. I’m looking forward to seeing how the changes from last year will be implemented and hope that everyone attending will have a great festival experience!
Preview By Brittany Whitham | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!