FRANKLIN, Mass. — Camp Haiastan turns 75 this year, and the whole community is invited to celebrate with an anniversary weekend Oct. 9-11.
For generations, Armenian kids have come to the camp’s 100 acres in Franklin to make friends, learn about their heritage and make memories.
For those who have spent summers at Camp, the weekend promises a walk down memory lane. For those who are newer to Camp Haiastan, it offers a chance to experience the traditions and spirit that have made it so special.
In either case, get ready for a big weekend!
Friday, Oct. 9 — Welcome Reception, 8:30-11 p.m.
The weekend kicks off at Eagle Brook Saloon in Franklin with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.
Saturday, Oct. 10 — Franklin Fun Run 5K, 8 a.m.
Run or walk to raise funds for Camp! Join in person at Camp Haiastan or virtually from wherever you are. Proceeds help keep Camp accessible to every family.
Saturday, Oct. 10 — Meet Me Under the Trees, 4 p.m.
The main event isn’t a formal program. It’s an evening to wander Camp, find old friends and see the places you remember.
Assisted parking will be waiting when you arrive. On your way down to lower Camp, stop at the Camp Haiastan sign for a photo. Professional photographers will be there, and the pictures will be posted online to download afterward.
Meet us Under the Trees for appetizers, wine, beer and a signature BUG JUICE cocktail for anyone who remembers the original.
From there, go explore. The Rec Hall will screen a short film of historic photos and memorabilia. You can sign a picnic table, old-school Camp graffiti style, and add to a Camp Will, a tradition anyone who went to Camp before the 1990s will know. The Mess Hall, the swings and Friendship Circle will all be available for you to visit and reminisce.
The Camp Store will be open with candy, ice cream, water, soda, the 75th Anniversary book and other goodies. All purchases are cashless.
Dinner is catered by Byblos Restaurant. Eat wherever you like: under the pavilion, at a high-top or out on the grass.
After dinner, a five-piece band including Mal Barsamian, Ara Dinkjian and Michael Gostanian takes the stage for your music and dancing pleasure.
Don’t miss this opportunity to reunite with former campers, counselors, families and friends of Camp Haiastan. Return to the place that has played a meaningful role in the lives of so many — and celebrate the community that has sustained it for three-quarters of a century.
And remember to dress casually yet warmly — we all remember those Camp Haiastan cool evenings toward fourth session!
Sunday, Oct. 11 — Camp Work Party, 9:30 a.m.
Close out the weekend by helping get Camp ready for next summer. All skill levels are welcome. Breakfast and lunch are provided.
Tickets and information
For more information about tickets and sponsorships, visit https://www.camphaiastan.org/75thanniversary/
And follow Camp Haiastan on Facebook and Instagram.
Meet Us Under the Trees!
