Like many towns, Canton is steeped in its traditions and the Collinsville Fire Department Inc.'s jamboree is one.
For nearly half-a-century's time, area residents of all ages have enjoyed the jamboree. More than one person has even told Patch they met their spouse at the event.
The 47th annual Jamboree takes place from Wednesday, May 15 through Saturday, May 18, 6 to 10 p.m. each night.
Once upon a time, the event was held in June but moving it to mid May several years ago made it a great way to kick off the a season of outdoor events, said Thomas J. Gotaski, chairman of the Board for the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department Inc.
"We just try to make it fun for everybody to enjoy getting out in the springtime," Gotaski said.
The event includes rides, food, a beer and wine garden, games of chance, Friday night (rain date Saturday) fireworks display and a Saturday Firefighters Parade that begins from Canton High at 6 p.m. and proceeds down Simonds Ave to Rte. 179, to Rte. 202, to the Jamboree Field.
The latter is a juried event with trophies open to all area departments. Last year it included 18 departments and the organization is working to build up the parade for its 50th jamboree celebration in a few years.
"The firefighter's parade is to support the firefighters, bring people together and hopefully bring the towns out to show their support," Gotaski said. The Litchfield Hills Pipe Band will also participate.
Of course, the jamboree is fun with a purpose. It's the major fundraiser for an organization that generally donates more than $20,000 each year to the Town of Canton Volunteer Fire and EMS Department.
The Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. is a non-profit organization that harkens back to an era with separate fire departments within town. It is now one of the associations that remains active in supporting the Volunteer Fire and EMS Department, the volunteer department that serves the entire town.
The Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. has purchased items such as rescue jacks used at accident scenes, radios, a rescue truck and much more. It also awards annual scholarships.
Details of the event include:
Wednesday, May 15, 2013 through Saturday, May 18, 2013: 6:00 pm to 10 p.m. each night.
- Friday, May 17- Spectacular Fireworks Display.
- Saturday, May 18 – Firefighters Parade: Begins at 6:00 pm at Canton High School: Simonds Ave to Rte. 179, to Rte. 202, to the Jamboree Field.
For $22 each night purchase a bracelet and enjoy Carnival rides from 6 to 10 p.m.
The event takes place at Jamboree Field, 91 Powder Mill Road, Collinsville.
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