WETHERSFIELD - The Newington Chamber of Commerce is holding the town’s Waterfall Festival this fall.

       Executive Director Leslie Civitello said it’s the commerce’s second time hosting the event.

       “It was previously run by a small committee of volunteers in Newington,” Civitello said. “When COVID came, one of the chair-people of the committee asked the chamber if they wanted to take it over because they were moving to Florida, so that’s how we ended up taking it over.”

       The festival is on Saturday, Sept. 23, at Market Square from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event has free admission and parking.

       “It’s important to highlight the downtown businesses and the chamber businesses and bring people together,” she said.

       Civitello said the event would have a kid zone sponsored by the Newington Children’s Theatre.

       “They’re going to have many performances and areas to bring the kids to get involved,” she said. “There will be a sing-along storytime, and we’re also going to have a Touch-A-Truck area.”

       According to Civitello, the event will have demonstrations by local karate groups.

       “The event includes a chalk contest, where community members get involved by decorating a square,” she said. “It’s an original piece of art done in chalk, and it’s a competition for all ages.”

       Civitello said the local volunteers gave the chamber a template to make the festival successful.

       “We had the support of previous volunteers to help mentor us through the first couple of years, so we took them up on that offer,” she said.

       According to Civitello, the chamber feels prepared for the event, and previous volunteers will continue to support them.

       “We are always looking for volunteers and support for all of our events,” she said. “The Art League and the Boy Scouts were involved this year and last year.”

       Civitello said the festival is geared toward families and residents.

       “I think it’s a good way to support local businesses in Newington and local nonprofits,” she said. “Come down and see what’s new and different.”

       According to Civitello, she hopes people leave the event with a sense of community.

       “It showcases the businesses, vendors, crafters, and community clubs,” she said. “It’s good to see the children’s theatre perform, and you know the opportunities for young people in town.”

       For more information, visit https://newingtonchamber.com/event/newington-waterfall-festival-2023/.