The Eliza J. Norton Foundation’s annual Celebrate with Heart Community Festival lived up to its name on Sunday, Sept. 28, turning the historic Cochituate Ball Field into a lively, joy-filled gathering spot for hundreds of children, parents, families and local vendors. Wayland families gathered to honor the memory of Eliza Norton and celebrate community spirit.
For three hours, the fields were alive with music, laughter and color. Bouncy houses, carnival games, and food trucks kept kids and parents busy, while a live band and DJ provided the soundtrack. The Patriots game was even shown on a jumbo screen, adding to the festive atmosphere. It was a true display of what it means to come together as a town.
A field of games and music
Children bounced between inflatable obstacle courses and lined up for a larger-than-life Twister game, while high schoolers mixed in for pickup soccer matches on the grass. A live band, Unbalanced, set the soundtrack from under a blue tent, their guitars and drums carrying across the fields. Nearby, volunteers in bright aqua shirts at the Eliza J. Norton Foundation tent welcomed families and shared the mission that inspired the day.
The festival also became a showcase for food trucks and local businesses. Coach Grill served steak sliders, Lachara dished out Latin flavors, Del’s offered frozen lemonade, and a pink cupcake truck satisfied sweet tooths. Families picnicked under the sun, balancing treats with a full schedule of activities.
Beyond games and food, tents across the field invited children to create and explore. Spark Salon added sparkle with braids and tinseling, while nearby volunteers offered face and hand painting. At the craft tent, kids decorated colorful sunglasses, while the Wayland School of Music set out drums and percussion instruments for anyone to play.
Remembering Eliza
From races across the grass to bubbles at the Wayland Post booth, the afternoon offered joy in every corner. While the festival brimmed with activity, the heart of the day continued to honor Eliza Norton, a child remembered for her humor, energy and love of sports. The festival is a living tribute to Eliza’s team spirit and a reminder of the resilience and generosity that define Wayland.
Since 2022, the Eliza J. Norton Foundation has expanded access to athletics and community activities through initiatives like “Play with Heart,” hockey scholarships, new dugouts at Cochituate Ball Fields, and “Read with Heart” book distributions.
