Every spring, The Westport Library transforms into one of Connecticut’s most dynamic cultural hubs—and 2026 is no exception. VersoFest is back, bringing together an eclectic mix of music, media, and storytelling for a multi-day celebration that blurs the lines between art forms and invites the community to experience creativity in all its forms.
A Festival That Hits Every Note
VersoFest isn’t your typical music festival—it’s an immersive experience. Expect live performances from nationally recognized artists alongside emerging voices, plus conversations with industry insiders, authors, and creatives who are shaping the future of media and entertainment.
From intimate acoustic sets to high-energy shows, the festival creates a space where audiences can connect with artists on a deeper level. Panels and talks offer a behind-the-scenes look at everything from songwriting and production to publishing and digital storytelling.
More Than Just Music
What sets VersoFest apart is its range. Beyond the stage, attendees can explore art installations, interactive exhibits, and workshops designed to spark inspiration. Whether you’re a music lover, a writer, a creative professional, or just looking for something different to do in Fairfield County, there’s something here for you.
A Community-Centered Experience
At its core, VersoFest is about bringing people together. Hosted in the heart of downtown Westport, the festival blends the accessibility of a local event with the energy of a major cultural happening. It’s a place where ideas are exchanged, collaborations are born, and creativity thrives.
The setting itself—The Westport Library—is a big part of the magic. With its modern design and open, welcoming spaces, it provides the perfect backdrop for a festival that’s all about connection and discovery.
Why You Should Go
If you’re looking to discover new music, hear from inspiring voices, or simply experience something different, VersoFest delivers. It’s one of those events that feels both intimate and expansive at the same time—where you might stumble upon your new favorite artist or walk away with a completely fresh perspective.
Mark your calendar, bring your curiosity, and get ready to experience one of Connecticut’s most unique festivals.
🎸 Kickoff Concert: The Thing | Feb. 27 VersoFest ’26 is officially HERE. We’re kicking things off with The Thing, the rising rock band out of NYC with deep Connecticut roots, taking the Trefz Forum stage for a night of pure energy. Standing room only — so get there early and get loud. Friday, February 27 at 8 PM. Tickets: $35.
🎶 Susanna Hoffs in Conversation & Song | March 6 She co-founded The Bangles. She gave us “Eternal Flame.” Now Susanna Hoffs is coming to VersoFest. On March 6, the iconic singer joins award-winning journalist and rock memoirist Alisyn Camerota for an unforgettable evening of music, stories, and candid conversation. This one is going to be special. Friday, March 6 at 7 PM. Tickets: $50.
🎨 Artist Reception: Holly Danger & Sean Williams | March 25 Come meet the artists behind two of VersoFest’s most talked-about exhibits. Join us for an intimate reception and artist talk with Holly Danger (Lighthouse) and Sean Williams (The SneakerVangelisT), plus Westport’s own Miggs Burroughs. Great conversation, great art — and it’s completely free. Wednesday, March 25 at 6 PM. No registration required.
🌟 Ani DiFranco | March 26 A folk-rock legend. A Grammy winner. A true original. Ani DiFranco kicks off VersoFest Weekend on Thursday, March 26, in conversation with Lauren Coyle Rosen, co-author of their new book The Spirit of Ani. Expect a night of raw honesty, spirit, and ideas that will stay with you long after you leave. Tickets: $35.
🎤 Wyclef Jean, LIVE | March 27 This is the one you’ve been waiting for. Grammy-winning artist, producer, and Fugees co-founder Wyclef Jean takes the Trefz Forum stage for a full live band concert on Friday, March 27 at 8 PM. Don’t sleep on this — it’s standing room only and tickets are going fast. $125.
💃 Cumbe Dance: Congolese Dance & Drum Workshop | March 28 Ready to move? Join Brooklyn-based Cumbe Dance and Master Artist Andoche Loubaki for a high-energy Traditional Congolese Dance and Drum workshop that’ll get your whole body going. Open to all levels, full of joy, and completely free. Saturday, March 28 at 10 AM. Registration required — grab your spot now.
📚 Claire Dederer on Monsters| March 28 Can you separate the art from the artist? Best-selling author and critic Claire Dederer has spent years wrestling with that question — and her book Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma is one of the most compelling answers yet. She joins journalist Hilarie M. Sheets for a conversation that will challenge how you think about creativity and morality. Saturday, March 28 at 1 PM. FREE
🎵 Verso University: Closing the Deal with Matt Starr | March 28 Want bigger gigs? A more sustainable music career? This is the workshop for you. Industry pro Matt Starr breaks down exactly how to meet the right people, set your rates, and level up — no fluff, just actionable strategies. Saturday, March 28 at 1 PM in the Boardroom. Only $5.
🎸 Adria Petty on Tom Petty’s Legacy | March 28 Tom Petty’s music changed rock and roll. His daughter Adria — managing partner of the Tom Petty estate — is here to talk about what that legacy really means. She joins music industry pioneer Sam Hendel for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation. Saturday, March 28 at 3 PM. FREE. Registration required.
🎬 Gina Gershon on AlphaPussy| March 28 Actress. Performer. Now memoirist. Gina Gershon is bringing her trademark fearlessness to VersoFest as she discusses her new memoir AlphaPussy with journalist and rock memoirist Alisyn Camerota. Expect laughs, candor, and the kind of stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Saturday, March 28 at 5 PM. Tickets: $35.
🖤 David J in Verse, Conversation & Song | March 28 From Bauhaus to Love and Rockets, David J helped define alternative rock. Now he closes out VersoFest Saturday with a one-of-a-kind storytellers event — reading from his new poetry collection Rhapsody, Threnody & Prayer, performing an acoustic set, and sitting down with author Douglas Rushkoff. Saturday, March 28 at 7:30 PM. Tickets: $35.
🎙️ Peter Shapiro in Conversation with Dean Budnick | March 29 Behind some of the most legendary live music experiences in America — Brooklyn Bowl, The Capitol Theatre, and beyond — is Peter Shapiro. He joins Relix editor Dean Budnick on Sunday, March 29 to talk the Grateful Dead, the jam band scene, and what it takes to build something truly lasting. FREE. Registration required.
💡 Exhibit: Lighthouse by Holly Danger | March 20–April 5 Step inside Lighthouse, an immersive video art installation by Stamford-based artist Holly Danger. Surrounded by thousands of colorful strings and enveloping light, this exhibit is a powerful reminder that we each carry light to share with the world. On display in the Sheffer Gallery March 20–April 5. Free and open to the public.
👟 Exhibit: The SneakerVangelisT by Sean Williams | March 20–April 5 Sneakers as self-expression. Sneakers as art. Sean “Opus 1” Williams explores the culture, creativity, and craftsmanship behind iconic footwear in The SneakerVangelisT, on display in the South & Jesup Galleries from March 20–April 5. Come see wearable art in a whole new light. Free and open to the public.
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