SANFORD — An official proclamation on Feb. 27, with fireworks that night, and a slew of events throughout the year are being contemplated to mark the 250th anniversary of Sanford’s incorporation.

It took 16 years for the Massachusetts government — which  governed the province of Maine until 1820  — to act on the petition, but on Feb. 27, 1768, Sanford, which had previously been known as Phillipstown, became incorporated as the 25th town in Maine.

Residents and those with ties to the community will mark that date in various ways throughout the year.

Sherry Lord, administrative assistant to City Manager Steve Buck and a member of the 250th committee, brought the council up-to-date on Tuesday.

She said the work is a collaboration between city officials and the Sanford Springvale Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to the Feb. 27 proclamation, set to be read in Central Park, the committee is looking at various ideas — such as a Colonial Re-enactment in July at Gowen Park; a barn dance; a brewfest, food truck and concert event; a Christmas gala and a return of a summer festival, an enhanced Fourth of July celebration and the fall Pumpkin Festival.

On Feb. 27, Mayor Tom Cote is expected to read the proclamation incorporating Sanford in Central Park. By that time, a new ice rink is expected to be fully operational. Later that night, a fireworks display is planned, Lord said.

A new logo, designed through a contest, is expected to be unveiled soon.

The council unanimously agreed to earmark $30,000 to help with the 250th celebration at their meeting on Tuesday.

Sanford Springvale Chamber of Commerce President Richard Stanley last week said businesses or organizations that plan events of their own to consider branding their events with Sanford’s 250th logo.

The town became a city under a new charter in January 2013 — the 24th city in Maine.  

— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 324-4444 (local call in Sanford) or 282-1535, ext. 327 or [email protected].