Ivoryton Village Alliance News
Ivoryton Illuminations Ever Brighter Thanks to Support from The Essex Foundation
$8900 Grant Awarded for Purchase of State-of-the-Art Light Display System
Essex, CT – The Essex Foundation Board of Directors recently granted $8900 to the Ivoryton Village Alliance in support of the volunteer group’s efforts to modernize the Ivoryton Illuminations Light Show. The holiday event attracts thousands of visitors to the Ivoryton Green each year and features two 24-foot Christmas tree props. The upgrade effort includes replacing over 10,000 traditional holiday lights with state-of-the-art pixel lights, purchasing new controllers and power units, and acquiring a new computer system for a more synchronized and visually dazzling display.
“We are incredibly grateful to The Essex Foundation for their generous support,” said Jonathan Steele, President of the Ivoryton Village Alliance. “This grant allows us to bring the Ivoryton Illuminations into a new era, enhancing the magic of the holidays while honoring the tradition our community cherishes.
Strickland Hyde, President of The Essex Foundation added, “The Foundation board members are delighted to help ensure the continued success and sustainability of the Illuminations show. The Alliance members are a dedicated group of enthusiasts who put their all into providing a captivating community experience and they have our whole-hearted support.”
The Essex Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making a difference in the lives of Essex residents. Supported by donations from the community, funding is provided for a broad range of needs not met by other organizations or sources. More information can be found online at www.theessexfoundation.org or by emailing contact@theessexfoundation.org.
The Ivoryton Village Alliance is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on donations and grants to support its work. Best known for sponsoring the annual Ivoryton Illuminations, the Alliance also organizes the town’s July 4th parade and co-hosts Trunk or Treat during the Pumpkin Festival. Through these events and ongoing community involvement, the Alliance is working to raise awareness of its mission and encourage broader public support.
PHOTO CAPTION: Ivoryton Village Alliance board members (l-r) Mary McCoid, Darwyn Azzinaro, Jules Hines, and Jonathan Steele accept a grant award from The Essex Foundation board members Bruce Glowac, Cheryl Harger, Marla Bogaert, Judy Bombaci, and Gary Riggio to fund a new light display system for the annual Ivoryton Illuminations show.
The Ivoryton Village Alliance is thrilled to announce the launch of our exclusive merchandise campaign—a brand-new way to support the community events that make Ivoryton special!
For years, the Alliance has brought you beloved traditions like:
- The July 4th Parade – A celebration of patriotism & community spirit
- Trunk-or-Treat – A spooky, family-friendly highlight of the Pumpkin Festival
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- Ivoryton Illuminations – A magical holiday light display that brightens the season
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on grants, donations, and the support of our community to keep these traditions alive. Now, you can make a difference AND show your hometown pride with our custom-designed apparel!
What’s Available?
Choose from a variety of T-shirts (short & long sleeve), tank tops, hoodies, and more! Each piece features unique event-themed designs and comes in multiple colors.
Why Buy?
Every purchase directly supports the Ivoryton Village Alliance, helping us fund these amazing events for years to come.
Join Us in Keeping the Tradition Alive!
Shop now, wear your Ivoryton pride, and be a part of something bigger.
A variety of styles and colors to choose from.
Essex 2023-2024 Annual Report
On Nov. 18th 2024 The Essex Board of Finance dedicated the 2023-2024 Annual Report to the Ivoryton Village Alliance(IVA) and the Essex Board of Trade (EBOT).
As noted by the First Selectman, “both organizations represent the business community in Town and do a great job of organizing events and fostering community spirit”.
Together, these groups contribute greatly to the strength and prosperity of our Town, bringing vitality to the three villages.
To read the more about the two organizations and what they bring to the Community as well as to read the annual report please click on the image below.
