Community Connections Festival

S.U.R.E. Diversity invites residents of all ages to celebrate a decade of building connections, fostering understanding, and strengthening community partnerships at the Community Connections Festival on Saturday, October 17, from 3–6 PM at the exciting new Swampscott Center for Performing Arts (formerly the Hawthorne Restaurant).

The Community Connections Festival recognizes the many people, organizations, businesses, and volunteers who have worked together over the past ten years to help create a more welcoming and connected community.

Guests will enjoy an afternoon of interactive activities designed to bring neighbors together. Highlights include a lively Community Drum Circle led by local musician Philip Alexander and a collaborative Community Mural led by artist Claire Donnelly, celebrating Swampscott’s history and the many stories that shape our community. Games, conversation starters, and other activities will encourage guests to join in, meet someone new, and make connections.

Music from different cultures and traditions will also be featured throughout the afternoon. Performers include Steve Tapper and Shira Moss, a flute and percussion duo; Juan Carlos Hurtado of Peru, demonstrating the 10-string charango, a traditional Andean instrument; and Christophe Matara of the Central African Republic, sharing Sango music from his country. Rupert Deese will wrap up the afternoon with Appalachian fiddle and American Old-Time banjo music, traditions shaped by the blending of musical influences from many cultures.

Exciting door prizes will be awarded throughout the afternoon, including two tickets to a performance at the Swampscott Center for Performing Arts, along with gift certificates to local establishments.

The festival will be held at the Swampscott Center for Performing Arts, a stunning new waterfront venue overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Swampscott’s rocky coastline, and the Boston skyline. The Center has generously donated the use of its beautiful space, and the Center’s owners have enthusiastically embraced the spirit of the festival, contributing creative ideas to help bring the theme of community connection to life.

“Part of the new Center’s mission is to bring the community together,” said S.U.R.E. Diversity member Margaret Somer. “Their vision aligns beautifully with ours, making this an ideal place to celebrate ten years of partnerships, friendships, and community.”

Founded in 2016, S.U.R.E. Diversity (Swampscott Unites, Respects, Embraces Diversity) works to build a welcoming community by creating opportunities for people of different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to connect through education, dialogue, cultural events, and community partnerships. Throughout the past decade, S.U.R.E. has collaborated with schools, local organizations, businesses, faith communities, and residents on programs that celebrate our shared humanity while honoring our unique stories.

Several of S.U.R.E.’s community partners will join in the celebration. The Swampscott Historical Society will share information about Swampscott’s rich history and landmarks. Swampscott’s history and local stories are also inspiring Johnny Ray as he explores creative ideas for food and beverage offerings that celebrate the town’s history and character.

Dave Aldrich of Grab the Bagel, a longtime supporter of local nonprofit and community events, will also join in the celebration, serving Grab the Bagel’s popular Bagel Bites.

Other local nonprofit and community organizations will also be on hand to share information about their work and ways for residents to become involved.

Whether you’ve been involved with S.U.R.E. Diversity for years or are simply curious to learn more, everyone is welcome. Come celebrate the friendships, partnerships, and community spirit that continue to make Swampscott a place where neighbors connect and everyone belongs.

The theme of the afternoon says it all: “Join in and get connected!”

Special thanks to our generous sponsors, including the Swampscott Center for Performing Arts, and to the many community partners helping make this celebration possible.

All are welcome to this free and lively community event. Light snacks, including Bagel Bites from Grab the Bagel, will be provided, and additional appetizers, food, and beverages will be available for purchase in the Dory Dining Room.

For more information, visit www.surediversity.org or email info@surediversity.org.