June is a month of fun in the Western Massachusetts region with two well-loved towns celebrating big birthdays. Both Sunderland and Shelburne are marking another year in their history books in 2018. Shelburne celebrates 250 years in the end of June, and Sunderland is honoring its 300th year starting with events this month, and continuing in the months of October and November. The actual date of incorporation for the town is recorded as November 12, 1718, however they decided to recognize the entire year as a time of celebration, and what better time to start than the kick off of summer?!
Mark your calendars for a weekend of fun, June 15th-17th:
Friday, June 15th
To start the excitement, Elementary School Students will perform an act of “Sunderland through the Ages” under the big tent, which will be located behind the town office building. Directly after the student performance, kids will have the option to participate in a town birthday cake contest, where burgers will also be sold by youth baseball. You can even learn and participate in contra dancing that evening.
Saturday, June 16th
Enjoy some breakfast, sold by the Sunderland Women’s club, to start your day behind the town office building. Check out the farmer’s market and craft sale while enjoying live music. Then, watch a dance performance and martial arts. Do not miss the parade that will be going from the elementary school, along Old Amherst Road and Main Street, to the end on North Silver Lane. Indulge in more fun behind the town office with food, beer, and music, and finally end the day watching fireworks!
Sunday, June 17th
This is going to be a day hosted by the brave men and women of the town. Fire trucks and other equipment will be on display behind the town office building, where the Sunderland Fire Department will moderate other fun activities and do demonstrations. Do not forget about your dad on this special day! Take him to a free barbeque, hosted by the Volunteer Fireman’s Association that afternoon. There will even be Polka music to end the weekend.
Find the full schedule of events here.
The rest of the celebration will occur in the fall, so be sure to check back in with the town website before that time comes!
This blog is written by Leigh Shippee, a summer intern at Coldwell Banker Upton Massamont Realtors. Check out her other work, “Fun for Families on the Mohawk Trail in the Summer,” where she also shares a bit about herself!
Footer Social