An Exclusive Interview with Chairman Ric Suzio
MERIDEN, CT – Sunshine, salsa, schnitzel, and soundtracks from tribute bands set the stage as the Meriden Daffodil Festival returned in full bloom for its 45th anniversary celebration! Held in the scenic Hubbard Park, this beloved Connecticut tradition brought families and festivalgoers from across New England together for a weekend packed with unforgettable moments.
In an on-site interview, Festival Chairman Ric Suzio gave us a high-energy rundown of everything this milestone weekend had to offer—and it did not disappoint.
Three Stages, 30+ Bands, and Pure Energy
"This weekend, we’ve got three stages starting Saturday with over 30 bands performing," Suzio beamed. "From an internationally known Dave Matthews Tribute Band to a local Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac tribute, plus salsa and other cultural music—it’s a full spectrum of sound."
Live entertainment continued across the weekend, creating a vibrant atmosphere that kept the park buzzing.
Food, Culture, and Community All Under One Tent
Hungry? The nonprofit food tent had everything. "We’ve got hot dogs, hamburgers, fair food, fried dough, bratwurst, schnitzel, walking tacos, empanadas, barbecue—you name it," Suzio said.
And it’s all for a good cause. Local organizations like the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Kiwanis, Noah’s Ark of Hope, and Meriden Raiders Youth Football ran booths staffed with volunteers. Each group handpicked their menu, served the crowd, and raised money for their programs.
Activities for Everyone
This year’s festival was truly something for all ages. "Behind us, you’ve got kid rides, and in front of us, more rides!" Suzio laughed. Younger attendees flocked to the Action Zone, while families explored the whimsical Theater of the Trees.
A bustling craft fair and the Mid-State Chamber of Commerce Business Expo added even more variety to the weekend.
Fireworks Return for the 45th Anniversary
To celebrate its 45th year, the Daffodil Festival brought back a crowd favorite—Saturday night fireworks! "We’ll have live entertainment right up until the fireworks begin after dark," Suzio confirmed. The spectacle lit up the skies and spirits, adding a perfect finale to day one.
Free Parking, Free Admission, and Festival Magic
One of the best parts? It’s incredibly accessible. "Admission is free. Parking is free. We just ask people not to park in the park itself,” Suzio noted.
Free shuttle buses transported guests from:
- Platt High School – 220 Coe Ave, Meriden, CT
- Lincoln Middle School – 164 Centennial Ave, Meriden, CT
- Meriden Mall – 470 Lewis Ave, Meriden, CT
The only costs were for rides and any delicious food you couldn’t resist—making the event perfect for those on a budget.
From Meriden to Maine: A Festival for the Region
Thanks to word-of-mouth and decades of success, the Meriden Daffodil Festival has grown far beyond city limits. "We’ve had people come from as far as Maine, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York," Suzio shared. "It’s become one of the most well-known festivals in New England."
A Blooming Success
With blue skies, bursting flavors, and booming fireworks, the 45th Meriden Daffodil Festival was a joyful reminder of why this event has stood the test of time. As Suzio put it best:
“If you can’t find something here, you’re not looking!”
