Annual Branford Green Artisans Show Is Fundraiser For Cemetery Wreaths

BRANFORD, CT — What began as an Eagle Scout project by Branford scout Mark Hally to raise money for Wreaths Across America is now smART FEST, a unique arts and crafts show featuring more than 60 artisans that raises money for Branford cemetery wreaths is held annually in the autumn on the Town Green.

Patch profiled Hally, who began his Troop 604 Eagle Scout project in 2017. He'd made sure wreaths were laid every December, part of Wreaths Across America, to honor and thank veterans for their service.

Hally touched hundreds of families whose loved ones, dedicated fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, sisters and brothers, served their country from the Revolutionary War to present day conflicts. On Christmas Eve 2021, a cold, rainy Saturday, he was joined by many at Branford cemeteries, including St. Agnes Cemetery, where some 500 wreaths were placed by volunteers.

According to smART FEST, it was his efforts that evolved into the annual artisan's fest which is set for Saturday on the Green from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.