Kennett Collaborative is expanding its seasonal programming to mark the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, with plans that include a Memorial Day parade, a June street festival featuring a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, and new patriotic decorations around town.
The kickoff is set for May 25, when organizers say Kennett Square’s Memorial Day Parade will launch the “250 in Kennett” effort and a season of anniversary-themed events. Community groups, performers, and organizations can register to participate at kennettmemorialdayparade.com.
Kennett Collaborative said its June Third Thursday celebration will be dedicated to the theme. The event, scheduled for Thursday, June 18, will run from 5:30 to 9 p.m. along State Street and include “Dare to Declare,” a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Organizers said a grant from the Chester County Community Foundation is helping fund the effort, including new small-town Americana decorations intended to create a festive experience for residents and visitors. The decorations are expected to be installed the week of May 18.
The group’s beautification committee will also refresh planters with red, white, and blue flowers from Pratt’s Greenhouse, according to the announcement. Kennett Collaborative said proceeds from the Kennett Blooms Plant Sale on May 2 and 3 will help fund seasonal flowers for planters and small garden spaces throughout town, and American flags will be added to some displays.
“We’re grateful to the Chester County Community Foundation for supporting 250 in Kennett,” said Mary Lou Baily, Kennett Collaborative’s development manager. “Their support helps us honor the heritage of America in Kennett Square while also celebrating our own hometown pride. It’s about creating a true sense of place and belonging.”
The organization is also asking individuals and businesses to consider donations of $250 or $25 to support the events and related townwide enhancements. More information is available at kennettcollaborative.org/support.
Kennett Collaborative said details on upcoming events and ways to get involved will be posted online.
For information, visit Kennett Collaborative online.
About Rich Schwartzman
Rich Schwartzman has been reporting on events in the greater Chadds Ford area since September 2001 when he became the founding editor of The Chadds Ford Post. In April 2009 he became managing editor of ChaddsFordLive. He is also an award-winning photographer.
