This year has gone by in a blur and when we look back at what we accomplished, it's easy to see why! Our small but mighty team at Destination Granby focused each season on how we could make the biggest impact given the circumstances and get back to gathering together as a community.
Winter
The 33rd Annual Ice Fishing Contest broke all records! We were determined to make the necessary changes to be able to still hold this event and it was worth it! This event broke all previous attendance records and became our most successful fundraiser yet. We were also able to safely bring thousands of people to Granby to help our small businesses have a successful winter weekend.
Spring
Our team made the most of a quiet 2020 to prepare for the launch of a new brand and website. These new resources help us better promote the town, events, and local businesses for people traveling through the area as well as locals. Through strategic planning, Destination Granby’s Roadmap helps to identify and focus our efforts on four main areas of impact: Business Support, Promotions, Placemaking, and Community Engagement.
As a way to boost support for our restaurants who were still under COVID restrictions, we hosted the first annual Granby Grubfest that could be enjoyed from home or by dining in.
Summer
As with the rest of the community, we were thrilled to welcome back in-person community events! With three days of activities, the 4th of July is a special time for Granby and what a way to kick off the summer. We also brought back the Farmers Market, introducing live music and making a special effort to bring in fresh produce to town and highlight our local farmers & makers.
Fall
This fall, two programs began, which start long term efforts for Granby’s planning and beautification. First, the Town’s Comprehensive Plan commenced with a community survey and discussions. Second, the Town of Granby was awarded over $750,000 towards beautification of downtown businesses through improving their energy efficiency and facades. Destination Granby is proud to be a part of both of these efforts.
We also hosted the First Granby Artwalk, showcasing local student art and their view on the resiliency of our community after the East Troublesome Fire.
This year, we also expanded Granby’s Halloween event into the two week fall celebration, Scarecrow Festival. With the help of our community partners, Granby hosted several fall themed events and the Scarecrow contest, with Trick or Treat on Main Street being the grand finale. We were thrilled to have over 500 adorable kiddos and their families walking throughout main street.
Winter
We are excited to have brand new lights hanging on the downtown trees, illuminating our Main Street. They help brighten up the town and really let you know you have arrived at a special place. With help from the Town’s Public Works Department, Granby is looking especially festive with the wreaths and banners throughout town as well.
The holiday season has exploded in Granby with community partners holding a wonderful variety of events all season long. We have gathered those events in our Hometown Holidays promotion, making it easier for people to plan their weekends. The Tree Lighting Event was a big success with the addition of an REO Speed Wagon decorated in the Information Center lot. And planning is well underway for the 34th annual 3 Lakes Ice Fishing Contest!
Destination Granby is working all year long to help the community come together to enjoy where we live. As we plan for next year, we want to hear from you on where our focus and efforts are needed, as well as how we can continue to improve our main areas of impact. Take this survey to provide your feedback as we plan for the coming years. Thank you for supporting us through this past year and we can’t wait to see what 2022 holds.
Destination Granby Team
Lauren Huber | Executive Director
Sarah Cichon-Douglas | Community Impact Manager
Carley Clegg | Marketing Manager