Laurel Tea at Elks Lodge kicks off festival season

WINSTED — The 77th annual Laurel Festival has been scheduled for June 10, 11 and 12 in downtown Winsted, and organizers will host the first major event of the year in preparation for the festival this Sunday, April 3, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Winsted Elks Lodge.At the annual Laurel Tea, the young ladies competing for the Laurel Queen crown will appear together for the first time to discuss the details of this year’s festival. More than 25 contestants have already registered for the Laurel Festival. Scholarships will be awarded to the annual Laurel Queen and two runners-up. Any high school junior or senior who resides in Winsted or attends a Winsted school is eligible to attend this tea and sign up for the Laurel Festival. Last week, organizers issued a call for donations for the festival. A Laurel Festival program will include advertising space for local businesses and residents and will be distributed before and during the festival. For information about making a donation, call Elaine Williams at 860-379-0063.The Laurel Festival opens Friday, June 10, with a sidewalk cafe and dance with candidates, families and friends. Saturday, June 11, will be the night of the annual Laurel Ball, the weekend’s formal event with introductions of the candidates, dinner and dancing. On Sunday, June 12, the annual Laurel Parade will begin at 2 p.m. Contestants travel through Winsted on Main Street, ending at East End Park for the ceremonial crowning of the new Laurel Queen on the Rotary Stage.Those who want to get a sneak preview of this year’s candidates can also make a donation in person at this weekend’s event at the Elks Lodge. Volunteers from the lodge will serve tea and refreshments for the event. For more information, call the lodge at 860-379-8045.

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