By Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The grounds of the former Medfield State Hospital (MSH), now known as the Bellforge Arts Center, were transformed last weekend as hundreds came out to enjoy a Spring celebration for humans, dogs and fairies alike: the third annual Fairy Walk. This magical festival featured craft and food vendors, photo ops, an array of entertainment, and, of course, a large number of incredibly creative fairy houses.
Families with children of all ages were invited to explore the grounds of the ‘Forge and discover various handcrafted fairy houses, created by local families and businesses.
Educational Consultant Kathleen Derian was behind the idea to bring this whimsical event to Medfield in 2021. She said she was inspired by fairy walks she attended both in Europe and here in Massachusetts and originally brought the idea to the arts council in an effort to assist them in fundraising. Three years later, the celebration is more popular than ever. “It's a lot of work,” Derian confided. “But every time I see a little boy or girl in a wizard hat or fairy wings at the event, it's totally worth it!”
Apart from viewing the many fairy houses on the Bellforge campus, children were able to have their faces painted, enjoy story time with Miss Rachel, enjoy performances from Liz Bills & The Change, Sullivan-Stewart School of Irish Dance, Malik The Magic Guy, and the Harney Pender Keady Academy. Families were able to enjoy a variety of treats provided by food vendors on site and explore the various booths on the grounds. It was truly a magical day for folks of all ages!
Bellforge Arts Center hosts quite a variety of exciting events throughout the year, most of them free of charge. Up next is the kid-centric Fun at the ‘Forge on Saturday, May 4th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by Fitness at the ‘Forge on May 11th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. For a full list of concerts, festivals and celebrations, visit www.bellforge.org.
