By Bryant Thigpen
Riverbend News
Family and friends gathered at Hatch Park on Saturday, July 4 for the 39th Annual Branford River Reunion, which is a celebration of Independence Day. Guests enjoyed a parade, arts and crafts, games, delicious food and a spectacular fireworks display, just to name a few.
“I think it went really good,” said Event Coordinator Peggy Terry. “Considering all we were up against, I think it went really well.” Although the event was enjoyed by all who attended, inclement weather and the coronavirus pandemic did its part to try to halt the event. But for the sake of the residents and everyone involved, the committee felt it was best to continue with the event, and the local residents were glad they did.
“If someone wanted a place to go and enjoy their hometown, we wanted to give them a place to do that,” Terry said. While guests were treated to a fun and exciting event, the coordinators also made sure the event was safe for everyone who attended.
“We wanted everyone to feel like they could enjoy the event safely,” she said. “All of the tables were spaced out six feet apart and the Health Department donated masks and hand sanitizer. We had a table set up and made those items available to whoever wanted them.”
This year, things were a little different than before, as the committee felt it was best to start the event later in the evening. “We decided before the virus came around to move it later into the evening when the temperatures were cooler,” she said. “This also gives people time to go boating and spend time with their family in the afternoon, and then come out and enjoy the crafts, food booths and the fireworks show.”
The celebration kicked off at Ivey Park with the Rotary Duck Race at 2 p.m. The parade was held at 6 p.m., followed by live entertainment at 6:30 p.m., featuring the Branford Highway Band, Booie Beach and other local talent. The Bedrock Derby Race was held inside Hatch Park at 7:30 p.m. While enjoying the music, guests could shop at the booths that served delicious pulled pork, philly steaks, squealer fries, tots, riblets and sweet treats such as: ice cream, snow cones and cotton candy. Around 9:30 p.m., the anticipated fireworks display lit up the sky as Americans celebrated their freedom.
“The parade was good and the people really enjoyed the fireworks show,” Terry said. “We especially want to thank the Branford Volunteer Fire Department for always handling the fireworks for us. They always do a great job.”
Next year the town will celebrate 40 years of the Branford River Reunion which is set to take place on Saturday, July 3, 2021. It will be another unforgettable evening of fun for the whole family.