Possum Queens, Kings, getting ready to party

LITCHFIELD — Every year, groups of costumed merry-makers gather at the Litchfield Inn for the annual Possum Queen Contest, an annual fundraiser at the Litchfield Inn. Since its humble beginnings on the Litchfield Green, the event has raised thousands of dollars for families who need help with medical expenses.

This year’s 29th annual contest begins at noon. Groups of performers donate money, also known as bribes, to the judges of the contest, who watch as they perform skits, sing songs and dress in a variety of costumes. In the past, entire families or groups of people have arrived appearing as the cast of “L’il Abner” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” to Batman and Robin being chased by the Joker and the Penguin. The sky’s the limit and spirits are high as the bribing and performing continue through the afternoon.

Live auction items include local music entertainers such as Ian Campbell and Jeff Conlon who will come to entertain at your party; two tickets to all events at the Warner Theater; Rolling Stone memorabilia; a barbeque for 24 by Woods Pit; and many more desirable items. Most noteworthy is a can of Possum soup that is offered each year, signed, and return for the following year. A silent auction is also held. The days events include the mock Possum Queen beauty pageant, a performance by Mattatuck Drum Corp; a live auction and food and beverages offered by The Tavern Off the Green.

The Possum Queen Foundation is a 501(c) 3 charity, which means all donations are tax deductible. Last year the contest raised more than $65,000.

The Litchfield Inn is located at 432 Bantam Road, Litchfield.

To learn more about the Possum Queen Contest and how to donate, go to https://www.facebook.com/possumqueenfoundation

Hearst Connecticut Media file photo Ian Campbell played the character Mork from the 1970s TV sitcom “Mork & Mindy” during a comedic skit at the 28th annual Possum Queen Festival. The contest returns Jan. 1.