Norfolk County Recovery Fest Postponed Amid Bleak Weather Forecast

BRAINTREE, MA — Another dreary weekend weather forecast has caused Norfolk County Sheriff's Office officials to postpone the Norfolk County Recovery Fest originally planned for Saturday.

“While this decision is disappointing, we look forward to planning for another day of amazing music and family fun, supporting the local recovery community,” said Sheriff Patrick McDermott. “Given the audio, technical, and safety equipment needed for this outdoor music festival, we needed to make the decision now, due to the current forecast for rain on Saturday morning, which may now linger into Sunday.”

The Norfolk County Recovery Fest is free and features several local musical acts, including Christian Champagne and the Kind Souls and The Glow. The event’s M.C. is Mathematics, "whose own personal journey serves as an example of how hope and change can lead to a brighter future," officials said.

Though no date has been set for the event, officials said they would still host it later this year.

“We would like to thank the many incredible performers and partners who have worked with us over the past several months to plan for a day of music and hope, said NCSO Assistant Deputy Superintendent of Rehabilitative Services Matthew Sisk. “The recovery community in Norfolk County is a tight-knit group of wonderful people who do amazing work, and we look forward to celebrating with them later this year.”

Festival attendees can also sign up to compete in the annual cornhole tournament organized by Massachusetts Young People in Recovery, and they will have access to the Norfolk Sheriff’s exciting Zip Line at the Braintree Public Safety Complex, along with games, including miniature golf and free food.

Recovery Fest will feature dozens of local vendors, all of whom are actively involved in the recovery community, offering their resources and support, officials said.

The event builds off the success of the Norfolk County Sheriff’s HOPE Center in Braintree, which recently celebrated its first anniversary.

The HOPE Center is a resource for formerly incarcerated individuals and members of the public who might need assistance, such as employment, substance use support or access to food and clothing.

The HOPE Center served 128 clients in 2024, including 86 "justice-involved" individuals and 42 community clients, and is looking to expand the reach of its services and support.