EASTON, CT — Easton Selectman and local business leader Nick D'Addario has been named the 2027 Barnum Festival Ringmaster, continuing a family tradition spanning six decades.
D'Addario, an Easton resident and fourth-generation business leader, will serve as ringmaster for the festival's 79th year, organizers announced.
He is the fourth member of the D'Addario family to hold the honorary role. His grandfather, F. Francis "Hi-Ho" D'Addario, served as ringmaster in 1967, followed by his cousin Mario D'Addario in 1995 and his uncle David D'Addario in 2000.
"Being named Ringmaster is a huge honor for me, given my family's participation and heritage with the Festival," D'Addario said. "My family and I are looking forward to celebrating the Festival's rich history, creating joy, civic pride and fostering community throughout the Greater Bridgeport region."
D'Addario has selected "A New Generation of Community Leadership" as the theme of the 2027 festival.
Born in Bridgeport and raised in Fairfield, D'Addario is president of Hi-Ho Energy Services, the family business founded by his great-grandfather Nicola D'Addario. The company is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027.
In addition to serving as an Easton selectman, D'Addario previously served on the town's Planning and Zoning Commission. He chairs the Board of Directors of the Child & Family Guidance Center and serves on the boards of the Barnum Festival and Cardinal Shehan Center.
The Barnum Festival was founded in 1948 and celebrates the life and legacy of P.T. Barnum while promoting community involvement and philanthropy throughout the Greater Bridgeport region. Events are held throughout May and June and culminate with a finale weekend featuring fireworks over Long Island Sound and the Great Street Parade.
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