SHREWSBURY – Scandinavian Athletic Club Park was abuzz on Aug. 13 as community members gathered for the Shrewsbury Summer Festival.
First started to safely bring residents together amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival has now been running for three years. According to Andrea Castinetti, who organized and coordinated the event, the event has improved year after year.
“[There are] definitely more food trucks, more vendors. We’ve realized what people really like – the magic show, live music,” she said. “Now, the festival is catching on.”
Steve Charette performed magic, Steve Angellis provided live music, and henna was available at the event. In addition, P. Pellegrino Trucking Co. Inc. offered free document shredding services.
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Over 27 vendors – mostly small businesses – lined the perimeter of the event. SELCO brought its bucket truck, Angel Hair Alpacas brought two fuzzy friends, and representatives from Spirit of Shrewsbury advertised the upcoming parade.
“I love to showcase small business,” Castinetti said.
The festival also features some good eats. Several food vendors – Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza, Kona Ice, Mrs. Moriconi’s, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Potato Potato, Sauced and Tossed Chicken, El Sombrero Taqueria, The Grub Guru, Ziggy Bombs – gave festival goers plenty of delicious options.
The event was free to attend, but Castinetti collected donations throughout the festival. This year, the event benefited Shrewsbury Public Schools classrooms.
“I think the biggest thing is that so many people want to get involved – they want to donate – they just don’t really know how. We give them that avenue; you bring a donation to whatever we’re doing. I just think it’s a good way to gather tons of people and raise awareness for local non-profits. It gives people a way to donate,” Castinetti said.
“It’s just a good way for the community to come together for the greater good to help others,” she added.
