Painting in the Park pleased the palette

Jul 14, 2022

MATTAPOISETT — They painted the town red.

Although some preferred blue, white and even gray.

The tent at Shipyard Park was filled with would-be painters Thursday night who created a sign depicting a mason jar filled with flowers during painting in the park, part of of a long weekend’s worth of activities celebrating Harbor Days.

The event was hosted with Painting at Splash, which hosts parties and other gatherings that teach those attending, even if they have no artistic experience, how to paint a colorful item they can then take home.

The setting, with the harbor in the background and amid a perfect summer evening, added to the experience, Annette Demaris of Mattapoisett said. “It’s nice to be on the harbor,’’ she said.

For Rosemary Williams of Mattapoisett and Gina Santos of Dartmouth, the evening doubled as what Williams described as a “ladies night out’’ for the two pals.

Shelley Butler of Mattapoisett also decided to attend to have “fun with friends.’’

Pam Souza of Rochester was intrigued by the promise of painting. “It seemed like something fun to do,’’ she said.

The night was particularly special for Abigail Mollicone of Cranston, R.I., who was celebrating her 74th birthday with her daughter, who lives in Mattapoisett.

Whatever their reasons for signing up, participants often discover untapped talents through these classes, said B.J. Peternel, owner of Painting at Splash in New Bedford.

People often “doubt themselves up front, but they leave loving it,’’ he said. “A lot of people do it for fun but then find out they actually like art.’’

There’s a lot more Harbor Days to come on Friday and throughout the weekend. Hosted by the Mattapoisett Lions Club, the popular annual celebration includes an array of food, music and crafters

Here is a schedule:

Friday, July 15, 5:30-7 p.m.

The Friday night fish fry includes a six-ounce piece of breaded fish, french fries, cole slaw, tartar sauce and lemon wedge. Meals are $15. Oxford Creamery is a sponsor.

Music by the Yard Sailors, 5-6 p.m.

Music by Jeff Angeley and Pebbles of Rain, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 16

Pie and bake sale, sponsored by Mattapoisett Woman’s Club, 9 a.m. until sold out

9 a.m.-5 p.m., Craft fair featuring more than 100 vendors

9 a.m.-4 p.m., Silent auction, highest bidders announced after 4 p.m.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. U Pick Em Auction

11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Kitchen is open

Music by Molly O’Leary and John Fernandes, 11 a.m.-noon

Music by Thatcher Harrison, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Music by Dave Alves, 2-3 p.m.

Music by Montage Bleu, 3:30-5 p.m.

Music by G&I, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

5:30-7:30 p.m., Lobsterfest, with lobster, corn on the cob, chowder and other features. $30

Sunday, July 17

8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Pancake and sausage breakfast six dollars for adults and children

9 a.m.-4 p.m., Craft fair featuring more than 100 vendors

9 a.m.--4 p.m. U Pick Em Auction

Music by Jeff Dunn, 9-10 a.m.

Music by Showstoppers, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Music by Funky Cat Trio, 1-3 p.m.

11 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Kitchen is open

4 p.m., 50/50 raffle drawing