#United States #Stonington #The Roost Festival #Stone Acres Farm #Grateful Shred

The Roost Festival Returns to Stone Acres Farm

The scenic fields of Stone Acres Farm in Stonington, Connecticut, will once again come alive with flavors, music, and community spirit on Saturday, November 1. This much-anticipated event, known as The Roost Festival, promises a day filled with culinary delights, craft beverages, and live performances reminiscent of the Grateful Dead’s vibrant gatherings on Shakedown Street.

The Roost Festival invites attendees to explore its 63-acre beautiful farm, transformed into a colorful marketplace that includes chef tents, a farm stand, a VIP lounge, and the unique Shakedown Street area. Culinary talents from both local and national realms converge to create an unforgettable food and drink experience. Attendees will be treated to an array of dishes prepared by celebrated chefs including Brad Leone, famous for his fermentation expertise, and Mason Hereford, known for his innovative approach at Turkey and the Wolf, recognized by Food & Wine as one of the most important restaurants of the decade.

Rich in culture and flavor, Mystic has emerged as one of New England’s leading culinary destinations. The Roost Festival mirrors this growth, showcasing chefs like James Beard finalist Reneé Touponce from Mystic’s own Oyster Club and Jordan Rubin from Portland, Maine, regarded as one of the nation’s best new chefs in 2025. Attendees will also have the pleasure of enjoying dishes from local favorites such as Frank Pepe's Pizza and Island Creek Oysters, enhancing the experience with exceptional items available only at the festival, including the signature Pawberry Cocktail created by Brad Leone.

In addition to culinary experiences, Shakedown Street will feature diverse vendors, offering unique crafts and products, like custom Grateful Dead garments and Leone’s shoe collaboration with Xtratuf. Families are welcomed as the festival includes exciting activities such as pumpkin carving and a dedicated kids’ area, ensuring entertainment for all ages. The backdrop of Stone Acres Farm, with its rich history dating back to the 18th century, adds to the event’s charm, making it an idyllic setting for gathering and celebration.

As the sun sets, the energy shifts to a lively concert with Grateful Shred, a nationally touring Grateful Dead cover band, performing into the evening. Founder and CEO of 85th Day Food Community, Daniel Meiser, expressed excitement about the festival's return, emphasizing the beauty of the farm and the fantastic mix of food and music.

Brad Leone echoed this sentiment, highlighting the magic of New England autumn, delicious food, and the cherished vibes of the Grateful Dead as the essence of what makes The Roost special. The festival offers general admission tickets for $69 and VIP options for $325. Children under 12 can attend for free, making it a truly family-friendly event.

A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Yellow Farmhouse Education Center located at Stone Acres Farm, supporting community initiatives and educational efforts.

For more details, visit www.theroostfestival.com or follow on Instagram @theroostfestival for updates. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of a celebration that unites food, drink, and music, bringing together families and friends for an unforgettable fall experience in Mystic.

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About The Roost Festival
Co-founded by 85th Day Food Community, culinary star Brad Leone, and Loupe Management's Carolyn Gagnon, The Roost Festival is a celebration that merges food, drink, and community. Taking inspiration from the legendary gatherings of the Grateful Dead, the festival exemplifies what makes Mystic a culinary hotspot while bringing together the best of the culinary scene in a festive atmosphere.