Sailfest kicks off in New London
New London — Chef Jose Martinez, co-owner of New London’s Thames Landing Oyster House, watched the activity on State Street on Friday and said he’s not quite sure what to expect during this weekend’s Sailfest.
On one hand, people have been cooped up during the coronavirus pandemic and are looking to get out. There is also the fact that Sailfest, and the fireworks display that accompanies the three-day event, is back after a two-year hiatus. But, he said, there is that faction of people leery about large events in light of recent gun violence nationally and locally.
“Tomorrow, Saturday will be the test. The key day,” Martinez decided. “It’s going to be a big test.”
Martinez joins other downtown business owners hoping for a profitable weekend as thousands of people gather for the music, food and fireworks that mark the weekend’s festivities.
Saturday is typically the biggest of the three days, with a fireworks display sponsored by Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and Foxwoods Resort Casino.
Luis and Tonya Colon of Groton, with two young children in tow, said they were out on Friday because they enjoy the event — they’ve been coming for several years — but do not like crowds. It’s the reason they avoid Sailfest on Saturday. Friday’s somewhat subdued atmosphere was more to their liking.
As for safety, Tonya Colon said people can’t live their lives in fear of violence. “You could walk out your door, trip and fall and break your own neck. It doesn’t mean I’m not going out my front door anymore,” she said.
The presence of law enforcement on Friday was hard to miss, with local police joined by Amtrak Police, Department of Homeland Security police, Connecticut State Police and members of the Connecticut National Guard Civil Support Team.
Friday’s event is just a precursor to the main event on Saturday, when roads will be shut down to accommodate the crowds and vendors will line Bank and State streets.
Mayreane Sullivan of Massachusetts, who used to work in the area, is spending the weekend in New London specifically for Sailfest. She’s been coming to the event for more than three decades and loves it. “I have to say, New London does a good job. They’ve done a good job with this for a very long time,” she said.
This weekend also marked the launch of a new marketing campaign for the city and the unveiling of a 40-by-30-foot banner hung on the side of the Water Street parking garage reading, “New London - It’s Happening.”
Mayor Michael Passero recorded a video highlighting recent business and cultural initiatives and upcoming projects. The video is produced by Frank Colmenares of New London-based ReelE Media in conjunction with Quinn & Hary, the New London firm that handles the city’s communications. The video is available at www.newlondonishappening.com.
For more information about Sailfest and a full schedule of events, visit www.sailfest.org.
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