By Belen Acevedo
Summer is upon us and the town Branford has a lot to offer for students looking for entertainment or recreation. Whether it’s going swimming at Branford Point or taking a hike in one of Branford’s 23 trails, there is something for everyone who is looking for fun before school starts up again in fall.
The Branford Supply Pond Blue, Yellow, and Green trails are some of the top hiking spots in the town. With more than 1,000 acres of open space, the Supply Ponds is not only for hiking, but many people come here to catch fish, bird watch, and even go mountain biking.
If the outdoors is not your choice of entertainment, then you may consider going to Jazz Night on The Green.
“The Branford Green has been doing jazz nights for 15 years,” said Colin Sheehan, the Arts, Cultural & Special Events Coordinator for the town. “Jazz nights are every Thursday throughout the summer presented in the Green.”
The Green will be hosting jazz nights featuring Big Brooklyn, Elan Trotman, and other great jazz musicians. More information can be found on their official website.
Sheehan also mentions some programs that the recreation department offers for children and even adults. Dance camp is being held for kids K-5th grade with the Branford High School Dance Team Coach Megan Palluzzi. This dance camp is a great way to get children out this summer and learn some new dance skills.
For people who are interested in practicing self-care, yoga would be a relaxing judgment-free experience for this summer. Outdoor Soul Chill Yoga sessions are being held in June and July or July and August at Foote Park.
Sheehan says, “Follow Branford Parks & Recreation Center on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date on all events.”
Sheehan is also excited about Footloose, a 1984 musical that is being performed this June and July. During the summer, Sheehan rehearses with the youth to lead a great show. Footloose is about a senior living in a town where dancing and rock music is banned. Ren McCormack ultimately finds a way to have a real senior prom. Tickets are currently available on the Branford Parks and Recreation Department official website.
Along with Footloose tickets, summer programs, camps, and activities are available to browse on the website.
Another great choice is taking a cruise around the Thimble Islands. There are 3 boat companies in the Stoney Creek Dock that you could choose to tour with. These tours range from 30-45 minutes long and give you a complete guide of the Thimble Islands.
There are endless amounts of activities you could do this summer with friends, family, or yourself in Branford. Remember that many people come to Branford to enjoy their vacation so, you could enjoy it too!
