Don’t look now but the town’s 300^th is just shy of two years away. The Celebrate Holliston Committee has already begun brainstorming for a year-long schedule of events. Penciled in are a Gala Ball in February, a St. Patrick’s Celebration in March, 300^th parade in May, Laser Light Show and Baseball Tournament in July, August brings a Day at the Lake and Golf Tournament, October, a Horse Show and December a Jingle Bell Run and Anniversary Dinner/Dance. Of course, many of the yearly events held by local organizations will still take place, some under the banner of the 300^th.

With the organizing committee looking for a few suggestions, here’s a few to help fill in the gaps. The Friends of the Community Farm recently held a bonfire event at the Community Farm on December 31^st. Make that event, along with the 1^st Night Rail Trail Walk a kickoff for the 300^th activities. Ah, February. How about a Hans Brinker (yes everyone else I suggested it to said “Who”). Skating race? Here’s a hint: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hans_Brinker,_or_The_Silver_Skates

And what about an ice fishing derby? March, the committee has penciled in a St. Patrick’s Celebration. Over a quarter of the town has Irish roots. How about a St. Patrick’s breakfast. It’s on a Sunday in 2024. Jay Marsden as M.C., Ken Szajda sitting alone, and Rep. Carolyn Dykema singing an “Ode to the Mayor of Mudville” It’s been done before and who knew Carolyn couldn’t play the guitar. April, ah warmer weather. How about a Spring Fling (Stroll)?

Maybe the EDC (Economic Development Committee) could sponsor a Trade Fair or a Jobs Fair. Maybe a “Holliston” authors book signing at the library. July is carnival month for the Lions Club — fireworks?

The local Legion Post held a Laser Light Show last year at Goodwill. They’ve nodded their heads to a repeat July show in 2024. How about incorporating a sing-along prior to the show for the entire community? Here’s what I’m thinking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGRfJ6-qkr4.

August seems like a good month to have an antique machinery show. Teddy Valpey would be the contact person here. September would be a great month for a Firemen’s Parade and Muster. Mark “Sparky” Dellicker would be the man who could pull this off. Just think of the under 20’s who have never seen Holliston’s Hydrant 3. Back in the day, the Holliston Sportsmen’s Association ran a Clambake along with a skeet shooting competition, let’s bring it back for the year Rich Girvin.  

Maybe as a Legacy Project we could rebalance Balancing Rock?? The possibilities are endless. Strawberry Festival anyone?

How about bringing Jo Dee Messina https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jo_Dee_Messina back to town? Anyone interested in forming a local chapter of the Brothers of the Brush or Centennial Belles?

Time is a wasting! Your ideas, suggestions, and thoughts are welcome in the comment section. Let’s give Celebrate Holliston a little help.