By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Southborough – Columbus Day is always a particularly special occasion in Southborough. On Oct. 8, the center of town bustled with activities for the 45th annual Heritage Day Celebration organized by Southborough Recreation. Over 150 jack-o-lanterns were displayed along Common Street from the previous evening when Southborough Rotary Club presented its 20th annual Pumpkin Stroll (formerly known as Light-Up Southborough).
A caravan of the town’s police and fire department vehicles led the parade. Other parade participants included town and state officials, political candidates, military veterans and Scout troops. Music was provided by marching bands of Algonquin Regional High and Trottier Middle schools.
The celebration continued at St. Mark’s School field with vendors, artisans, refreshments, inflatable amusements, photo booth, and representatives from nonprofit organizations and businesses. A kids’ soccer challenge was sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 19. Boy Scout Troop 92 offered the popular pie-eating contest.
Nearby, Southborough Historical Society hosted an open house and self-guided tours of the restored Old Burial Ground. Other activities included a book and bake sale held as a fundraiser by Friends of the Southborough Library. Meanwhile, families attended an open house at the Southborough Fire Department. The event concluded with SkyRise Theater performing at Pilgrim Congregational Church.
Photos/Ed Karvoski Jr.