A record-breaking crowd gathered at the Rindge Common on June 26 as the town kicked off its annual Independence Day celebrations and Family Fun Festival with a historic tribute to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
The event, organized by the Rindge Chamber of Commerce, blended traditional festival activities with special commemorative ceremonies marking the semiquincentennial milestone.
Festival highlights included the ringing of the historic Meetinghouse bell 250 times, organized by Thomas Seppala, and the dedication of a Liberty Elm by the town’s Conservation Commission.
“The Chamber of Commerce extends its deepest thanks to the many individuals, businesses, and community members whose sponsorships and hard work made this landmark event a success,” Chamber officials said in a statement.
The afternoon featured a massive parade that brought together local veterans, horses, marching groups, and several bands, including a performance by the Nashua Spartans. More than 100 marchers participated, alongside local children riding decorated bicycles.
The bicycle pageant, supported by local parents, the PTO, and Chamber members, awarded ribbons and commemorative coins to children across 10 different judging categories. Mike and Jen Whitehead assisted with the parade lineup, as well as the overall setup and breakdown of the festival.
On the Common, a team of 44 volunteers managed the recreation tent, ran family games, manned road barricades, and handled post-event cleanup. Rindge Recreation Program Director Ally Faircloth helped anchor the recreation tent, preparing food for attendees, while 20 local vendors provided additional food, drinks, trinkets, and face-painting services.
Live entertainment was provided throughout the day by Rick and Diane Ammons, alongside Jennie Aho and the American Heirlooms. Aho and the American Heirlooms also provided the live musical soundtrack for an evening fireworks display produced by Pyrotecnico Fireworks Inc.
Victoria Stenersen, a member of the town’s 250th Committee, collaborated with the Chamber and Rindge Recreation Director Dan Bemis to coordinate the festivities. The duo also designed commemorative 250th anniversary T-shirts. Officials noted that a limited number of shirts remain available for purchase; youth sizes can be secured through Bemis at the Recreation Department, and adult sizes are available through Stenersen.
Chamber organizers also expressed gratitude to Fire Chief Bob Faas, the Rindge Police Department, local EMS, and Select Board members Tom Coneys, Larry Cleveland, and Bob Hamilton for their logistical support and cooperation.
