2nd Annual Bewitched and Bedazzled Festival Returns to Lincoln, RI
Lincoln, RI—The Friends of Hearthside House has announced that the 2nd Annual Bewitched and Bedazzled: A Magical Fall Festival will take place on Saturday, September 30, from 10 am-4:30 pm at Chase Farm Park. This one-of-a-kind event weaves together the magic of fall and allure of all things Halloween, while bringing the community together in a family-friendly extravaganza filled with mesmerizing performances, interactive activities, artisans and vendors, and much more.
“We are thrilled to bring Bewitched and Bedazzled: A Magical Fall Festival to life once again.” said Kathy Hartley, Founder, President & CEO of Friends of Hearthside House. "Our aim is to create a joyous experience that continues the magic started by Disney's filming of Hocus Pocus 2 at this site and celebrates the fall season, all while providing valuable lessons from history.”
The event boasts an impressive lineup of non-stop activities and performances. On the main stage, there will be lively music and dancing as The Dance Factory brings captivating dance performances and Endicott Dance Academy demonstrates various dances which are also taught in mini-workshops throughout the day at their tent. Circus Dynamics will unleash their mastery of magic and circus arts, leaving audiences in awe with their incredible skills and interactive performances. Simply Enchanted, Rhode Island's premier princess and fairytale experience, will grace the event with live musical performances and a Meet & Greet session where attendees can capture memorable photos with the ‘Sanderson Sisters.’ Reverie Theatre brings history to life by delving into the stories of the townspeople accused during the Salem Witch Trials. Roxanne Jasparro, owner of Bewitched of Scituate, defies the image of the witch with a pointed hat by presenting the practices and beliefs of modern witchcraft.
Furthering the exploration of history during the 17th century will be displays and demonstrations of crafts that would have been seen in Salem at that time. Reenactors will showcase basketweaving, candle dipping, spinning, an apothecary with natural medicines, chocolate making, leather working, tabletop games of the period, and crime, law and punishment. Interpretive panels are also displayed with history of Halloween and the Salem Witch Trials.
The Land of Enchantment is a special area which focuses on children’s entertainment and activities. The “Land of Enchantment” line-up includes Pell Award winner Dan Butterworth with his most popular marionette performances. The Mystical Mermaids bring tales with a message of protecting our environment, and children’s entertainer Greg Lato will get all ages engaged. Games, crafts and wand making are also featured. Catering to little ones with special needs will be imaginative play in a separate sensory area.
But the magic doesn't stop there! Bewitched and Bedazzled offers a plethora of activities throughout the day. At the Psychic Pavilion, 20 psychics will offer readings using various methods, providing insight and guidance. Around the grounds, watch as the whimsical Bubble Fairy creates a mesmerizing
display of magical bubbles, and the butterfly stilt walker rises above the crowd with colorful wings. Children and adults can also indulge in face painting and henna artistry from a variety of artists.
Meanwhile, the Rhode Island Stage Ensemble (RISE) actors will enchant visitors with captivating Halloween storytelling during tractor-drawn hayrides through the meadows. The popular Legend of Sleepy Hollow is brought to life with an appearance by the headless horseman riding his horse nearby, also a great spot for photo opportunities.
The festival will feature live music from the artists of C2 Records, managed by Phil Oakley. Phil Oakley is a native of Lincoln, Rhode Island, and his artists have played at many local events, including the 2023 Lincoln Memorial Day Parade. C2 Record’s group of talented singers will play both cover music and original songs for all to enjoy in a mix of musical genres that include country, pop, and rock. Short sets will be played for all to enjoy throughout the festival, dancing and singing along is encouraged to add to the atmosphere of fun.
The “Broomstick Bazaar” marketplace will be a treasure trove of artisanal delights. With some 90 artisans and vendors showcasing their wares, attendees can discover a wide variety of gift choices for themselves or to start early holiday shopping. Products range from hand crafted items including wands, brooms, candles, artwork, an array of herbalist items, soaps and personal products, flowers, crystals and mystical items, jewelry, artwork, clothing, Halloween and holiday decor, books, children’s items, and much more. Delectable treats include vendors selling kettle corn and seasonal treats. A variety of food trucks will handle breakfast and lunch items throughout the day.
Guests will have the chance to meet and interact with costumed characters, adding a touch of whimsy and creating memorable photo opportunities. Since it is the kick-off of the Halloween season, costumes are encouraged. Bewitched and Bedazzled will host a costume contest for both children and adults, where creativity and imagination will be celebrated.
Artists are invited to enter the Plein Air Art Contest where scenes from the festival will be creatively captured on the medium of their choice during the event.
Tickets need to be purchased in advance; none will be sold at the event. Ticket prices are $13. Tickets are now available to purchase through greatroadheritagecampus.org. Public parking will be nearby at CCRI with shuttle buses to the site continuously throughout the event.
BeWitched & BeDazzled is organized by the nonprofit Friends of Hearthside, Inc., with proceeds benefiting the continued restoration and public programming at the four town-owned historic properties at the Great Road Heritage Campus. The Town of Lincoln is hosting the event at Chase Farm Park. Major sponsors include Navigant Credit Union, Endicott Dance Academy, The Valley Breeze, Orchard Works Wands, Bally’s Twin River, Haunted Gallows, Interbuild, and Lincoln Tire & Auto.