Despite threats of nor’easter-strength winds and rain, Rockin’ the Hook 2026 went on nearly as planned.

Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity’s (SHOP) signature autumn event welcomed three of the four planned bands and certainly made the best of things during the family-friendly fundraiser on September 26. Rain and wind were present, but the spirit of organizers was stronger than Mother Nature.

SHOP President Mike Burton said the event, centered around Heritage Park on Glen Road, “had 200 people despite the weather.

“Everyone stayed dry, we had enclosed tents, a semi enclosed pavilion, and it was a great time,” he added.

The pavilion hosted the event’s stage, which welcomed performances by 100 Proof playing modern country and rock, Dan’s Garage playing classic rock, and then Zac N Fried bringing the sounds and energy of The Zac Brown Band to Sandy Hook Center for the closing hours of the celebration.

Chaz from 99.1 PLR even stayed true to plans to broadcast for part of the event, and local podcasters Gavin Arneth and Brian Hartgraves were guest bartenders for a few hours. Six contestants also participated in the inaugural Rockin’ the Hook Wing Eating Contest, according to Burton. D’Andreas Deli & Café and Dad’s Grill provided additional food options for event attendees.

Mural Project Continued To October 11

The weather on September 26 did force the postponement of one element of Rockin’ the Hook. The public had been invited to purchase 12- by 12-inch wood squares, which were to be painted as part of The Village Mural Project that afternoon.

By the following day, organizers of that project announced a new date for the painting section of the community project. The public is now invited to Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue’s main station, at 18-20 Riverside Road, on Sunday, October 11, when the project will resume — this time rain or shine.

The Village Mural Project is a community art and fundraising initiative created to bring residents together through creativity while supporting SHOP’s Bridge the Hook initiative.

Created by local artist Morgan Sclafani, the design includes the former pedestrian bridge SHOP is fundraising to replace, the business district’s red sidewalks, a table set for a meal, a guitar, the Sandy Hook Center Christmas tree, and other local highlights. Sclafani’s illustration has been transformed into a large-scale mural divided into 48 individual one-square-foot sections.

On Sunday, community members can purchase a square for $25 and paint it themselves, becoming part of the finished artwork. Each purchaser will receive a printed guide to the section they are painting, visit the Color Bar to select the paint colors needed, find their corresponding square on the large-scale canvas, and then paint their section and help bring the mural to life.

Organizers promise participants do not have to be a professional artist to be part of the mural. The project is about community. Each person who paints a square will leave their own little mark on something that will become a lasting part of Sandy Hook.

Sclafani will be on site throughout the event, giving participants an opportunity to meet the artist behind the original design. Attendees will also be able to purchase a postcard replica of Sclafani’s original artwork and have it personally signed by her.

The event will also feature free face painting for children by the Newtown High School varsity cheerleaders, along with Sandy Hook Village merchandise available for purchase. Additional event activities and offerings will be announced as they are finalized.

Finally, 100% of proceeds from the mural project will support SHOP Sandy Hook Village’s initiative to “Bridge the Hook” and replace the Sandy Hook pedestrian footbridge. The footbridge has long been an important connection within Sandy Hook Village, and SHOP has made its replacement one of its primary community fundraising goals.

The rescheduled Village Mural Project will take place rain or shine. If the weather cooperates, painting will take place in the rear parking lot of the firehouse. If it rains, the project will move inside the firehouse.

Participants should be aware that exterior, non-washable paint will be used. Dress accordingly and wear clothing and shoes that can get paint on them.

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Managing Editor Shannon Hicks can be reached at shannon@thebee.com.