Festival Brought Hundreds Out On Overdose Awareness Day

BRANFORD, CT—As part of National Overdose Awareness Day, the Branford Green was host to hundreds Saturday who came together to listen to music, dance, share stories and learn more about addiction and how to make a difference.

The 12-hour festival of music, speakers, family activities, crafts, and food trucks drew hundreds. Organized by Smile Anyway, the event paid "tribute to those who lost the battle to the disease of addiction."

The goal was to bring the community "together to make a difference."

"Only by working together as a community, breaking the stigma, and judgement, will we save lives," the message read.

The event included a memorial wall, a moment of silence, and numerous "educational and holistic" services including addiction specialists, massage therapists, motivational speakers and spiritual support services.

Music was provided by a number of bands including Hayley Jane, Creamery Station, Shake Down, Jen Durkin’s Steal Your Funk, Delusions of Grandeur, The John Spignesi Band, Jordan Meyer & KC Makes Music, Nunz & Pepin, and Tim Palmiere.

Kids and adults danced and gave the Hula Hoop a go.

Learn more about Smile Anyway, a resource and recovery community center here.