Winterfest Activities Set to Begin This Weekend

This weekend kicks off the annual series of Winterfest activities in Rockville.

The festivities will commence on Friday with a torchlight Parade of fire trucks from Vernon and surrounding towns, a carol sing and tree lighting ceremony.

It is all part of a new effort on the part of the town and the Rockville Community Alliance.

Friday's festivities are scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to share some refreshments with the public at Town Hall. Members of the Rockville High Marching Band will be on hand to accompany carolers and welcome the fire truck parade which will come down West Road and up Union Street to Central Park in Rockville. After the parade, trophies will be awarded for the best decorated Vernon fire truck and the best decorated guest fire truck.

Mayor George Apel, assisted by one lucky child whose name will be drawn from a hat, will light the town Christmas tree. Parents may enter their child’s name for the drawing by sending their name, age and phone number to: judithbeaudreau@gmail.com  or by mail to:  Judith Beaudreau, 14 Park Place, Vernon, CT 06066.

Also after the parade, Jacob’s Well Coffeehouse at Bev’s Corner, 3 Union Street will host the Union Congregational Church’s Praise Team singing Christmas songs in rounds. 

The event is free to the public and light refreshments will be available.

On Saturday a Victorian tea is being offered at a historic downtown home.

Tickets are $10 and Pre-registration is required. Contact Pam DiDio for reservations at pamd@att.net or at (860) 646-5320.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in the Town Hall lobby from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.