WILBRAHAM – Every year, seniors get together at the Spec Pond Pavillion to enjoy a picnic put on by the Wilbraham-Hampden Rotary Club. After the Rotary Club declined to sponsor the picnic this year, the Wilbraham Department of Elder Affairs stepped in to begin a new tradition with a familiar feel.

At noon on Aug. 20, Wilbraham seniors will be treated to an Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social at the Pavillion.

“Our seniors look forward to getting together every August,” said Director of Elder Affairs Paula S. Dubord.

So, when the usual picnic fell through, Dubord told Reminder Publishing, she reached out to Luso Federal Credit Union and Rice’s Fruit Farm. “They both came through,” Dubord said.

There will be a free lunch of hot dogs, baked beans, and chips, sponsored by the credit union and Rice’s is providing ice cream sundaes. In addition to the food, Sarah the Fiddler will play for the crowd. There will also be a raffle.

“We’re hoping this becomes a yearly event,” Dubord said.

The rain-or-shine event is open to seniors from Wilbraham and is limited to 160 people, so registration is required. People can register in person at the Senior Center or by phone at 596-8379.