For nearly four decades, Banana's Ice Cream has been a cherished participant in Celebrate Wallingford, dating back to the event's early days as the Taste of Wallingford in 1986. The ice cream store, a local favorite, has been a family-run business since 1996, when it was purchased by the current owner’s family. Since then, they have consistently brought their beloved treats to the festival, year after year.

 

The journey of the current owner, Melisa, with the ice cream shop began at the age of 16. Starting as a young employee, she worked through various positions in the store during high school and college. The family’s connection to the shop deepened in 1996 when they officially took over the business. In 2018, the store was rebranded as Banana's Ice Cream, a name that has become synonymous with quality and community spirit. Though now operating more behind the scenes, the owner still takes great pleasure in connecting with the community, particularly during Celebrate Wallingford, an event they eagerly anticipate each year.

 

The owner’s involvement with the ice cream shop started even earlier, inspired by her brother, who began working there when owner Melisa, was just 13 years old. Frequent visits to the shop with their family sparked a lifelong passion for ice cream and a deep connection to the business, making it much more than just a job—it became a family legacy.

 

Preparing for Celebrate Wallingford has been an evolving process over the years. The business started small, with just a table and cooler, but has since expanded its presence at the festival. Today, Banana's Ice Cream brings their ice cream trailer, aptly named "Happiness on Wheels," ensuring that their presence is felt and enjoyed by all.

 

What draws Banana's Ice Cream to participate in Celebrate Wallingford each year is their love for interacting with the community. The festival provides the perfect platform to engage with both long-time customers and new faces, fostering connections that extend beyond just selling ice cream.

 

Over the years, Banana's Ice Cream has created countless memories at the festival. One particularly memorable year featured an ice cream specialist in a cow costume, handing out goodie bags to delighted attendees. Another year saw heavy rain turning their tent area into a river, necessitating a makeshift bridge to navigate the flooded area. And then there were the times when it snowed during the festival—an only-in-New-England experience that added a unique twist to serving ice cream. Among these memories, the most treasured for the owner is involving their children in the event each year, making it a true family affair.

 

For Banana's Ice Cream, the joy of being part of Celebrate Wallingford lies in the sense of community. The festival offers a chance to reconnect with old friends, meet new people, and network with other small businesses, all while celebrating the vibrant Wallingford community. It’s this blend of tradition, connection, and excitement that makes Celebrate Wallingford an event they look forward to every year.