It was a bright and beautiful Saturday for our St. Patrick’s Weekend and 250th Celebration Spring Hiking & Workshop on March 21. We had great weather and a wonderful turnout of participants of all ages and abilities at scenic Sunrise Park’s Upper Pavilion.
Photo by Donna Carney-Bastrzycki
St. Patrick’s Weekend Hiking Workshop fun on Sunrise Parks’ Upper Pavilion
In partnership with Mat Jobin, Owner of Reach Your Summit, our hiking event welcomed residents of all ages and abilities for an afternoon focused on outdoor recreation, local history, and community connection. The program began indoors with a workshop designed to prepare participants for time on the trail. Topics included spring layering techniques, trail safety, the history of hiking in Connecticut, and proper hydration methods—providing practical knowledge for both new and experienced hikers.
Following the workshop, participants joined guided hikes along a portion of the historic New England Trail while enjoying the natural beauty of Sunrise Park. Hikers had the opportunity to choose between a beginner-friendly walk or a more moderate hike to take in all the beauty of Sunrise Park and to learn more about hiking history in Suffield.
Throughout the program, participants were supported by hike leaders Mat Jobin of Reach Your Summit, Donna Carney-Bastrzycki, Director of Special Programs, and volunteer Stephan Bastrzycki, who helped guide and encourage attendees along the route.
We were especially glad that the event coincided with National Down Syndrome Day, offering a meaningful opportunity to celebrate inclusion, awareness and community togetherness.
Light snacks were provided, and we extend our sincere thanks to the Marotta Family for generously contributing a selection of delicious homemade goodies that were enjoyed by all in attendance.
As Suffield Parks & Recreation, we are grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the program such a positive and fun experience. Events like this reflect our ongoing commitment to providing opportunities that encourage fit and active lifestyles, appreciation for the outdoors, and meaningful community connections in Suffield. We are now looking ahead with excitement to our spring and summer offerings—including events, camps, and programs—and to continuing the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary throughout the season with themed activities, games, and special events for the community to enjoy.