Maybe just me but we didn’t seem to have a lot of time to spend being grateful in the days leading up to Thanksgiving (I guess because of all the preparation involved) and, let’s face it, as quickly as the plates were cleared after the big meal, lots of us were off to the stores for holiday sales.
If you’re still eating leftover turkey today for lunch while I appreciate the thought, I’m not sure that counts as being thankful even if it is delicious. Sorry for grumbling, but I wanted to get that off my chest.
Earlier this week, I started to enjoy the sounds and scents of the season when I first encountered the Salvation Army collection kettle at the Norwichtown Commons’ Stop and Shop. And the display of wreaths just before you reach the kettle really confirms the start of the holiday season.
Over eighty years ago, Norwich was named Connecticut’s Christmas City and this Saturday we’ll have a chance to enjoy again some of the reasons for that honor. But you’ll need to get up early (and maybe dress warmly) to sample all that’s on tap in The Rose of New England.
Did I mention sneakers? I should have because you’ll want those as Reliance House has teamed up with the Hartford Marathon Foundation for the 6th Annual Norwich WinterFest 5K and Free FitKids Fun Run starting at nine o’clock. There’s still time to register as a runner, a walker or even as a volunteer by clicking here.
Now that you’re warmed up, you’ll be just in time for the 31st Annual Norwich Winterfest Parade in downtown at one o’clock. This year’s theme is “Vintage Christmas” and, as always, the parade features music, lots of marchers, even more spectators, high school marching bands and some pretty stiff competition for trophies and awards for the best floats.
The Parade Grand Marshal is Tucker Braddock who has served the City of Norwich in many ways to include as an Alderman and member of numerous boards and committees.
If you’ve enjoyed the parade in years past of course you already have it on your calendar but bear in mind this year’s route has been modified. It’ll still be a terrific time (of course!) but the route will now be the same as the one we have for the St. Patrick’s Parade.
In other words, the marchers will step off on Main St. by the Otis Library, make a right onto Franklin Street, then a left onto Willow Street, with another left on Chestnut Street, followed by a left onto Broadway (feels a little like NASCAR) with one last right turn back onto Main Street. And as always there are great activities for the whole family throughout downtown after the parade concludes.
And don’t forget Leffingwell House Museum’s Christmas in the Colonies on Sunday afternoon from one until four for a look at the way we were and speaking of Sunday, the first day of Hanukkah is Sunday evening so Chag Urim Sameach!
-bill kenny
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