Plan Ahead to Get the Most From Simsbury Celebrates

As residents plan to attend Simsbury Celebrates on Nov. 30, organizers have one important piece of advice — plan ahead.

This year the Simsbury Celebrates Committee has worked hard to stagger the events and continue to provide activities for all ages. Still they said it’s too much to see in one night and suggest people prioritize what they’d like to do. 

“Look at the program before you come,” said Carol Brown, marketing and publicity chair. She recommends a maximum of three indoor performances sprinkled with other activities.

“I think it’s really crucial,” added Linda Johnson, event founder. “Look beforehand. The program is so extensive.”

The 12th anniversary event takes place over several blocks of Hopmeadow Street between Plank Hill Road and Drake Hill Road.  The fun starts at approximately 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30.

Activities include pictures with Santa (come early), live entertainment, Ski Sundown’s Rail Jam, Pony Rides, martial arts and fitness displays, sports contests, Mr. Claus’ Kitchen and demonstrations by the likes of Theatre Guild of Simsbury, Simsbury Light Opera Company, the ACROfitness Performing team, the Simsbury Spinners, Villari’s Martial Arts Center, and Gloria Rossetti’s Dance Studio.

Characters such as Stilt Walking Toy Soldiers, Rocky the Rock Cat, Supercow, Elmo and more will also be in town that night.

New features this year include a life-size Lego model, an ice sculptor and a Nutcracker character Meet and Greet.

See schedule for places and times online here. Copies will also soon be available at Simsbury Public Library, Town Hall and other locations. 

“We work really hard to get activities, events and performances that fit all age groups,” Brown said.

A few activities date back to Opening Night, a similar event formerly held by the Simsbury Arts Council. Those include the Annual Messiah Sing In and the Annual Holiday Firetruck Parade with Santa.

Of course the night ends with a fireworks display complete with a corresponding musical score played on the Performing Arts Center Stage by Perfect Vision and Sound. The music will be broadcast on 88.3FM.

It was 2002 when the Parks and Recreation Commission, working with volunteers, resurrected the event as Simsbury Celebrates.

The event may be town sanctioned but few realize volunteers raise some $23,000 annually to keep it going and pay all out-of-pocket expenses such as entertainment, lighting and security, Brown said. Community and other organizations that sponsor specific activities, such as the Rotary Club pony rides, supplement those efforts.

“There are a lot of groups and organizations that allow us to keep the event free,” Brown said.

Only a few aspects, such as the $10 Santa photos and food vendors, require money. Donations jars will also be displayed for those who want to help keep the event going. 

Fundraisers are held throughout the year and business and individual contributions are a key factor.

Checks can also be sent to 

• Simsbury Celebrates 
• P.O. Box 495
• Simsbury, CT

Beyond financial the event involves a huge effort. It’s a year-round effort for a small group of volunteers. Volunteers are also needed the day of the event and anyone interested in helping can email simscelebrates@gmail.com

Brown has been involved in the event for numerous years and said it’s she’s made new friends and loves to see families come together, see old friends and have fund. “It makes you feel like you’re doing something nice for the community,” she said.

“I think it’s incredibly rewarding,” Johnson said.

See more at http://www.simsburycelebrates.com/

The committee has also extended the Gingerbread House Competition through Nov. 20. See details here.