An Extraordinary East Haddam Event

Participants in the “Witches Walk” pose in front of the East Haddam Swing Bridge. (Photo by Lauren Pszczolkowski)

By David DeLucia

Some experiences are so special they defy mere words. The recent Halloween in the Village event on Oct. 17 fits that category in spades. Despite cool weather and a blustery wind, the turnout was brisk and the smiles on children and adults alike were contagious!

There were several centers of activity over a wide area of the Village. Rathbun Library offered a "Halloween Hamlet" which included Henna painting and glitter tattoos, balloon twisting, hula hooping, face painting and a scavenger hunt. The last of these was especially ingenious, with index cards of objects to find which were hidden in miniature houses built by volunteers. Younger children had pictures to help them while older kids were given a list of words. While the families were having fun they could enjoy the Twin Peaks Chicken food truck, which offered all things chicken as well as two sizes of absolutely delicious French fries.

A short walk down the hill from the library led to the gazebo across from Gelston House, where several vendors set up their wares. The variety of goods offered was extraordinary, from fresh sourdough bread through stunning ceramic replicas and intricate handmade pottery to useful items such as kitchen helpers and other household essentials. There was also a bake sale which featured tantalizing snacks at very reasonable prices.

While people were walking from place to place, they could enjoy the entries of a scarecrow contest, which were all named and very creative. There were also fabulous plant displays courtesy of Ballek's Nursery, including one which formed the backdrop of a "selfie station," where people could take photos among the posies.

If walking around proved a bit daunting, there were also hayrides offered throughout the village which doubled as shuttle buses. On one of these was the versatile Tomcat Bob who performed several jazz and popular standards on the banjo. The hayride itself was bumpy and fun and filled by the guests.

Two special events contributed to the day's success. One was a "candy drop" courtesy of the wonderful folks at the Goodspeed Airport.  Actually, it was confetti that dropped from a plane and the candy was already on the ground. Children and their parents were enthralled to watch the plane in action and East Haddam is lucky to have a local airport that can make magic like this happen.

 Right after the "candy drop" was a witches walk for adults only. Over a dozen stalwart souls donned their best witch costumes and walked over the East Haddam Swing Bridge, continuing through the village where they ended their journey with a little witch's "brew". (Hint, it had caffeine!) The looks on the children's faces as the boisterous witches passed was precious!

All the walking around created a thirsty crowd which was alleviated by the Stonewall Farm Drink trailer and the Rocks and Rolling Drink truck. Especially popular was hot and cold cider which apparently hit the spot.

At the end of the day, this reviewer felt proud to be part of a town that came together to present an outstanding presentation such as Halloween in the Village. There isn't space to credit everyone involved, but certainly Lauren Pszczolkowski deserves much kudos for planning Halloween in the Village and bringing it to fruition.

Also, many thanks to the Goodspeed Airport staff, Friends of the Rathbun Library, Ballek’s Garden Center, the food and merchandise vendors, and the countless volunteers that worked very hard to ensure this event's success. Give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back and Happy Halloween everyone!