By Brian Goepfrich
Stafford thrives on community spirit, and a significant part of that vibrancy comes from the work of the Events & Celebrations Committee (ECC). As a dedicated town committee, the ECC plays a crucial role in organizing and facilitating a variety of events that bring residents together, celebrate our rich culture, and enhance Stafford’s reputation as a welcoming and dynamic community.
What is the Events & Celebrations Committee?
The ECC, also known as the Events & Celebrations Committee, was established to support and enhance Stafford's town events. The committee is composed of town representatives and 10 committed members who meet every second Tuesday of the month to plan, coordinate, and execute events. But their work doesn't stop there—the ECC is always looking ahead, brainstorming new ideas to bring even more opportunities for community engagement to life.
The committee collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders, including local organizations, town officials, businesses, and volunteers, ensuring that each event is successful and meaningful. The ECC’s mission is to provide both residents and visitors with opportunities to experience Stafford's history, music, arts, and culture while fostering social cohesion and promoting the town as a vibrant community.
The ECC’s mission and goals
The Events & Celebrations Committee is driven by a clear set of goals:
Sustaining and Expanding Events: The ECC aims to sustain and selectively expand well-managed events that offer significant economic and social benefits, making Stafford a more livable town with safe, free, and engaging activities for participants of all ages.
Growing Financial and Volunteer Support: The committee is focused on growing opportunities for sponsorships, grant funding, and vendor fees, as well as expanding volunteer opportunities within Stafford.
Fostering Community Pride: By hosting events that enhance the quality of life and promote Stafford's positive image, the ECC fosters community pride and strengthens the town’s reputation.
Promoting Tourism: Events are also a crucial part of Stafford’s strategy to increase tourism opportunities, generate positive media coverage, and drive visitor spending in the town.
Why I joined the ECC
When I moved to Stafford in 2021, I knew I wanted to make a meaningful impact on my new community. Volunteering has always been a passion of mine, and I was eager to find ways to serve Stafford. Through a connection in town, I discovered the Events & Celebrations Committee (ECC), and after attending several town-wide events, I was inspired by the joy I saw on so many faces. I knew then that I wanted to be a part of something that brought our community together in such a positive way.
With the unwavering support of my family, I have had the privilege of leading a group of dedicated volunteers on the ECC for the past year and a half. These individuals are truly committed to making Stafford a better place, sacrificing their free time to ensure that both long-standing traditions and new events continue to be available for all residents to enjoy.
The most satisfying part of this role has been witnessing the engagement of our community and seeing how many people come together to make these events a success. Stafford's camaraderie and spirit are remarkable, and I am proud to be a part of them. I look forward to continuing my service on the committee for as long as I can and am excited about the new events and traditions we will create together in the future.
Exciting upcoming events
The ECC has an exciting lineup of events planned for the coming months, designed to bring the community together and celebrate the best of Stafford. Check out Explore Stafford CT on Facebook or @explorestaffordct on Instagram for updates on ECC events as well as other events happening in town.
Stafford’s First Annual Gather & Groove: On August 31, 2024, enjoy a day-long celebration of music with activities spread throughout the town. Highlights include a Taylor Swift-themed dance party, an open mic hosted by the Art Commission, and intimate concerts at various homes and businesses.
Stafford’s Second Annual AppleFest: On September 28, 2024, AppleFest returns to downtown Hyde Park and Haymarket Commons. Enjoy cider and apple beer tastings, a craft fair along the river, and fun fall-themed activities. Don’t miss Grace Episcopel's famous Apple Pie fundraiser!
Halloween Home Decoration Contest: Returning to Stafford, Get ready for Halloween by entering your home in the town’s decoration contest. Categories include People’s Choice, Scariest House, Best Themed House, and Best Business. Participant entries are due by October 19, 2024, with winners announced during Trick-Or-Treat on Main Street.
Trick-Or-Treat on Main Street: On October 26, 2024, Join the community for a spooktacular afternoon at Stafford’s annual Trick-Or-Treat on Main Street. From the Rotary up to Church Street, Main Street will be closed off for trick-or-treaters of all ages to collect candy from local businesses and community organizations.
Winter Holiday Decoration Contest: Returning to Stafford, as the holiday season approaches, get your house ready for Stafford’s Winter Holiday Decoration. Categories will be decided in the fall. Participant entries are due by December 8, 2024, with winners announced during WinterFest.
Stafford’s WinterFest: Mark your calendars for December 14, 2024, when WinterFest returns with activities throughout the day and the Parade of Lights starting at 5:00 p.m. This year, the parade will feature a themed float competition, with the theme to be announced in November.
Get involved
The success of these events relies on the combined efforts of Stafford’s first responders, town employees, and volunteers. If you’re interested in joining the ECC, sharing ideas, or volunteering at any of our upcoming events, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at events@staffordct.org or attend our meetings every second Tuesday of the month. To volunteer or to find out more details about the upcoming events, visit the Explore Stafford website.
Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more connected Stafford community. We hope to see you at our next event!
Comments