SOUTHWICK – Although most of the town’s 250th anniversary celebrations have been pushed to 2021 due to COVID-19, the Southwick 250 Committee is marking this year’s birthday with four events.
On Nov. 7, the day Southwick was incorporated as its own town, the Committee will host a Vehicle Procession at 2 p.m., “Virtual” Town Picnic throughout the day, Town Visual Presentation in the evening, and the announcement of the Photo Contest winners.
Celebrate Southwick 250 Committee member Deb Herath offers information on the celebration of the town’s incorporation during the town election May 14, 2019. (HOPE E. TREMBLAY/THE WESTFIELD NEWS))
According to Southwick 250 Committee member Deborah Herath, the procession will feature the 250 Trolley, along with a Southwick Police escort and a limited number of volunteer vehicles.
“The procession route will focus on neighborhoods and secondary roads throughout town and is designed to allow all to celebrate while maintaining social distancing. Balloons, happy birthday signs and merriment are encouraged from all,” states a press release.
For the All Day Virtual Town Picnic, Southwick-based businesses are invited to offer 250-themed take-out food, beverage, and other.
With an early Sign-up, the 250th Committee will promote the creative 250 Specials on the Facebook and website pages. This is an opportunity to buy local and support Southwick family businesses as part of the 250th Anniversary Celebration.
“Southwick: Beautiful Town of Lakes, Fields, Meadows, Forests and People” is a one-hour presentation planned to be broadcast on Channel 15 and Facebook also the evening of Nov. 7. It will feature the images from the 250th Photo Contest, short videos and much more.
“This will meld with the opportunity to purchase and enjoy take-out foods and beverages from favorite Southwick establishments while watching this presentation…a virtual and actual picnic experience with all who appreciate Southwick,” said Herath in a written statement.
Southwick 250 Photo Contest winners in multiple categories will be declared during the presentation and also posted on Facebook no later than 9 p.m. that night. Over 250 photos were submitted by those who wanted to share their favorite sights around Southwick, with visuals of the lakes, farms, people and places. Southwick 250 prizes will be awarded to winners.
Southwick 250th Souvenirs continue to be sold, including pint glasses, mugs, hats, tee shirts, sweatshirts and decals. Souvenirs are sold at Southwoods Printing, Southwick Florists, The Summer House and The Launch. All proceeds help fund future 250th events and provide a reminder of the celebration of the town’s founding 250 years ago.
