Norfolk Sheriff's Office Reschedules Recovery Fest After Weather Canceled Previous Events

BRAINTREE, MA — Sheriff Patrick McDermott and the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the HOPE Center and Wey of Life Peer Recovery Center, have announced the date for the Norfolk County Recovery Fest.

The festival had previously been postponed due to a string of weather-related bad luck.

The free event, billed as "a day of live music and hope," is set for Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Public Safety Complex, 2015 Washington St., in Braintree.

“September is Recovery Month, and this is a fantastic way for everyone to support those on the front lines of this effort and to celebrate the recovery community,” said McDermott. “Join us for a fun-filled family day that’s open to all and take in great local music at the same time.”

Recovery Fest is free and features several local musical acts, including Christian Champagne and the Kind Souls, and The Glow. Boston comedy legend Steve Sweeney will also take the stage.

The event’s MC is Mathematics, whose own recovery story "is a testament to his resilience and transformation from addiction," officials said.

Recovery Fest will feature dozens of vendors who are actively involved in the local recovery community.

Attendees ages 10 and older will have access to the sheriff’s exciting Zip Line, and there will be games for all, including miniature golf, and complimentary food from the sheriff’s Tactical Picnic Unit.

An annual cornhole tournament organized by Massachusetts Young People in Recovery will be held on the day of the festival. The tournament will start at noon and will include prizes. Competitors may register up until 11:45 a.m. that Saturday.

Recovery Fest builds off the success of the Norfolk County Sheriff’s HOPE Center, in Braintree, which was opened by Sheriff McDermott in April 2024.

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