Lee Founders Weekend Returns
LEE, Mass — Lee Founders Weekend is taking shape for its 2026 return, with more than 100 participants already confirmed for the three-day celebration, Sept. 18–20.
The weekend's Family Fun Zone will add a full slate of free activities for children and families of all ages.
Hosted by the Lee Chamber of Commerce, Founders Weekend brings together longtime traditions, local businesses and organizations, live entertainment, food, family activities, and new offerings throughout downtown Lee.
"Founders Weekend is one of those weekends when the whole town comes alive," said Alexandra Heddinger, director of the Lee Chamber of Commerce. "It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate what makes Lee special while inviting people from throughout the Berkshires and beyond to come enjoy everything our community has to offer."
The weekend kicks off Friday with the Taste of Lee, bringing together local restaurants and food vendors in the heart of downtown, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
In the Park, the Happy Together Band will provide live entertainment, while Main Street will feature live, original music from Berkshire songwriters Liv Cummins, Elizabeth Berliner, Kevin "Strings" Smith, and JoAnne Redding.
A Friday Night Beer Garden in the Library parking lot will feature music from Michael Aaronson & Katherine Winston and Robin O'Herin, adding another gathering spot for the evening. "After Party" gatherings at local bars will finish out the night.
Saturday morning brings the Founders Weekend Parade, followed by a full day of activities, food, and entertainment throughout downtown and a Vendor Fair in Church Park.
The Family Fun Zone taking place at the Lee Athletic Field will offer a wide variety of free activities for children and families across a range of ages, with attractions ranging from pony rides and a bounce house to ice cream, cotton candy, and more.
Car enthusiasts can visit the Lee Lions Classic Car Show and see antique fire apparatus presented by the Society for the Preservation and Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America (SPAAMFAA). Live music from Fannie Pack will add to the festivities.
In the Park, the Lee Sons and Daughters of Italy will return with their popular homemade grinder sale, a longtime Founders Weekend favorite, while the Berkshire Fife & Drum Corps, Berkshire Rhythm Keepers, and the Berkshire Be-Witches will be among the entertainment.
Sunday included the Dog Parade, where pups of all shapes and sizes take to the streets, and the Lee Lions Rubber Duck Race, when hundreds of bright yellow ducks race down the Housatonic River.
The Cornhole Tournament will bring friends, families, and competitors together for some friendly Sunday afternoon competition.
Founders Weekend also offers opportunities to experience some of Lee's history and heritage, including tours of the historic Lee Congregational Church and an Old Fashioned Meeting House Supper.
"Each year, Founders Weekend grows a little more, and this year is no exception," Heddinger said. "We're excited about the incredible range of people and organizations coming together to make this weekend happen. There really will be something for everyone."
A full schedule and additional event details will be added as plans are finalized. Visitors can find updates and information at leechamber.org/festivals/founders-weekend/.
