The Sixth Annual Pink Party, benefitting Komen New England, will be held in West Hartford’s Blue Back Square on Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017.

By Ronni Newton

Thousands of people will “pink out” in West Hartford Thursday night to officially kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month at a “party with a purpose” in Blue Back Square from 5-8 p.m. on Oct 5.

The Pink Party is free and open to the public, and it’s also fun while at the same time focusing on breast cancer awareness. Many exhibitors (click here for a complete list) will be handing out “pink” items as well as providing valuable health-related information.

Entertainment will be provided by the Shaded Soul Band, and there will also be food and drink tastings as well as other giveaways, T-Shirt Press, face painting, and raffle prizes with proceeds supporting Komen New England.

“Print your own t-shirts” are available for purchase at $20 (while supplies last) with proceeds benefiting Komen New England. 

Thirty local breast cancer survivors will appear in the evening’s highlighted activity: strolling the pink carpet in a fashion show featuring the latest clothing and accessories from area retailers, with hair and make-up styles donated by local salons. Several survivors will also participate in a dance performance sponsored by Arthur Murray Dance Center. [Editor’s note: I am one of the survivor models, and am thrilled to participate in this event for the fifth time.]

“Susan G. Komen New England is committed to the local fight against breast cancer,” Lori van Dam, CEO of Komen New England said in a news release about the event. “Pink Party is not only a great event that supports Komen New England’s mission to save lives and end breast cancer, but it’s a fun evening celebrating survivors and thrivers and honoring those we’ve sadly lost. Komen New England is grateful to The Hartford Courant, the businesses in Blue Back Square and the town of West Hartford, who give so much of their time and effort to put on this event.”

According to Komen New England, 75 percent of the organizations net proceeds support local programs, while the remaining 25 percent is invested in research focused on causes and cures for breast cancer.

For more information about the organization, visit Komennewengland.org.

In the event of rain, the Pink Party will be rescheduled for Oct. 6. For more details, including a schedule of activities, visit www.pinkpartyct.com.

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