The Waterbury Symphony Orchestra invites audiences of all ages to celebrate summer as it presents its 37th Annual Picnic & Pops concert, “What The World Needs Now,” on Sunday, July 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the picturesque setting of Hollow Park, Woodbury.

This relaxed summer tradition invites families and friends to pack a picnic, spread out a blanket, and enjoy an evening of exceptional live music beneath the summer sky.

A cherished Northwest Connecticut tradition, Picnic & Pops combines the relaxed atmosphere of an outdoor picnic with the excitement of a live professional 20-piece Pops ensemble. Under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Maestro Leif Bjaland, the WSO will perform an uplifting program celebrating the songs and sounds that have shaped America’s musical heritage.

Connecticut-born soprano Katie Nicole Weiser, praised by Connecticut Magazine as “golden voiced,” returns as a WSO audience favorite, performing alongside the orchestra’s dynamic wind and brass ensemble. Concertmaster Alyce Cognetta Bertz (violin) and Gary Bertz (guitar) will also make special featured appearances.

Whether audiences are swaying to the cool rhythms of Brubeck, enjoying timeless Broadway classics, or celebrating stirring patriotic favorites, this year’s concert offers an unforgettable musical journey through the sounds that have defined America for generations.

“We are thrilled to be back in Hollow Park celebrating America’s love affair with songs,” said Maestro Leif Bjaland. “With folk melodies like Shenandoah, Broadway ballads such as What I Did for Love, and rousing tributes to our Armed Forces, we will be performing music that is timeless, uplifting and patriotic—music that has been woven into the fabric of our nation for the past 250 years. It is an evening designed to bring people together through the joy of live music.”

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, pack a picnic, and enjoy an evening of exceptional music in one of Connecticut’s most beautiful outdoor concert settings. General admission lawn seating allows families and friends to create their own perfect summer concert experience.

In the event of inclement weather, the performance will be moved to Nonnewaug High School in Woodbury.

Calendar Listing
Sunday, July 12, 2026 5:30 p.m.
Waterbury Symphony Orchestra
37th Annual Picnic & Pops
“What The World Needs Now”
Hollow Park, Woodbury, CT
• Inclement Weather Location: Nonnewaug High School, Woodbury, CT

Gates Open: 4:30 p.m.
Free Accessible Parking

Tickets:
$30 in advance*
$35 at the gate
$10 Students (with valid Student ID when purchased through the Box Office)
Children 15 and under are FREE

Purchase Tickets Online:
waterburysymphony.org

Telephone Ticket Orders:
WSO / Palace Box Office
203-346-2000
*Standard booking fees apply.

 

Featuring
Waterbury Symphony Orchestra Pops Ensemble
Maestro Leif Bjaland, Music Director & Conductor
Katie Nicole Weiser, soprano

Special appearances by
Alyce Cognetta Bertz, violin and Gary Bertz, guitar

Hollow Park, 43 Hollow Rd. Woodbury, CT
https://www.waterburysymphony.org/