The Great Northeast Travelers gathered at the spectacular Normandy Farms Campground in Foxborough, Massachusetts, for our 2026 Fall Rally. We were thrilled to welcome attendees from 10 different states and one Canadian province.
While a perfect event relies on many factors, the absolute most important element of any successful rally is the people—and we truly had a wonderful, warm group present this year.
Of course, a premier venue helps set the stage, and it simply doesn’t get any better than Normandy Farms. Between the superior amenities and the wonderfully helpful staff, it was the perfect backdrop.
Even the unpredictable New England October weather did not disappoint, giving us a beautiful autumn week to enjoy the outdoors.
Active Days on Courts and Two Wheels
Our daytime activities brought out everyone’s energetic and competitive sides. We took over the campground’s beautiful new pickleball facility, filling the courts with laughter, active volleys, and a lot of fun.
The impressive cornhole facilities also drew a fantastic crowd of members eager to show off their bean-bag tossing skills.
For those who preferred two wheels over paddles and bean bags, a group ride traveled 12 miles through the scenic back roads of Foxborough. The route included a scheduled pit stop at the Station One Brewery in the Foxborough Commons, where riders enjoyed cold craft beers on the patio before pedaling back to the resort.
Evenings at the Lodge and Pavilion
The social hub for the week was the lodge—a stunning, spacious facility perfect for a group of our size.
We kicked off our first night with a meet-and-greet happy hour. Everyone brought delicious appetizers to share, and the room was buzzing as old friends reunited. During our traditional first-night self-introductions, it was a pleasure hearing stories from our first-time attendees.
Each evening, after the scheduled events wrapped up, many campers gravitated toward the resort’s fantastic outdoor Pavilion. Gathered around the large stone gas fireplace, travel stories and future road trip adventures were swapped late into the night.
Presentations, Bingo, and Incredible Sponsors
Our days were packed with great food, helpful information, and charity.
Wednesday Morning
Members gathered for breakfast at the lodge to watch a presentation by Matt from CTM Customs. He showcased an array of clever modifications designed to make our beautiful Leisure Travel Vans even better. Thank you, Matt, for sponsoring this wonderful event!
LTV Bingo
Later that afternoon, Mark and Mary Hickman hosted a lively round of LTV Bingo, with all proceeds designated for local community heroes.
Wednesday Night Pizza Party
Staying true to tradition, our second night featured a massive pizza-and-salad party, generously sponsored by SkyMed. A huge thank you to Travis for his continued, reliable support of our group.
Trivia Night
Following dinner, Brian and Jackie Shannon entertained us with a thought-provoking and incredibly fun Trivia Night. It was obvious how much hard work they poured into the game, especially the custom movie clips!
Thursday Morning
We started the day with coffee and donuts, kindly sponsored by LTV. Afterward, Foxborough firefighters Joe and Eva gave an interactive presentation on the proper, safe use of fire extinguishers.
Following the demonstration, Mary Hickman presented Joe and Eva with a check for $450—the total proceeds raised during Wednesday’s Bingo game!
A Delicious Barbecue and a Moving Farewell
On Thursday evening, the Sarcastic Swine food truck pulled up to the lodge to feed our hungry campers. They served up mouthwatering, delicious barbecue, and it was incredibly impressive to see how fast they managed to serve our entire group.
Once dinner wrapped up, we transitioned into our official club meeting. This meeting held an extra layer of emotion for us: we announced that after seven seasons and 13 rallies, we are officially retiring as the leaders of the Great Northeast Travelers.
As we shared the news, we couldn’t help but reminisce about the beautiful memories of past rallies and the lifelong friends we have made along the highway. Every chapter must eventually close, and we know it is time to bring fresh ideas and new energy into the group’s leadership.
With complete confidence, we introduced Larry and Judy Chin as the new leaders of the Great Northeast Travelers. Given their fantastic skill set, we know they will take this community to wonderful new places. Larry and Judy hit the ground running, announcing the location for the 2027 spring rally and sharing that they are already scouting a prime location for the 2027 fall rally.
Just like that, another rally came to an end. Closing these events always brings such mixed emotions. There is the initial peak of excitement watching the LTVs roll into the campground, full of anticipation for the fun ahead. Then comes the quiet sadness of watching everyone unhook, pack up, and drive away toward their next destinations.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to everyone who helped us along the way during our time as your leaders. Safe travels, enjoy the open road, and we’ll see you down the road!
Written by: Paul & Marilyn Goodwin
Comments