Dartmouth Boy’s Backyard Fiesta Raises $2K for Animal Shelter

Dartmouth 12-year-old Ashton Conlon has done it again.

This time, he’s raised the bar (and the lemonade pitcher) in the most selfless way. At this year’s "Rick and Tammy’s 9th Annual Summer Bash," Ashton collected an impressive $2,000 for the Fairhaven Animal Shelter, surpassing last year’s total by $400.

A Fiesta for a Cause

The Galligo family’s summer bash has become a popular tradition among their friends and family, and each year comes with a different theme. For 2025, the backyard was transformed into a full-on fiesta that was swimming in sombreros, tacos, colorful décor, and for the adults, perhaps an ice-cold Corona or two.

READ MORE: Dartmouth Boy’s Lemonade Stand Raises $1,600 for Fairhaven Animal Shelter

While guests enjoyed the party atmosphere, Ashton was hard at work behind his lemonade and churro stand, inspiring attendees to “bring your pocket full of joy” for the animals, as event host Tammy Galligo put it.

From Small Gathering to Big Tradition

What started years ago as a small neighborhood gathering has grown into one of the most anticipated summer events for the Galligo family, with the help of their daughters Ashlie and Allie. With games, raffles, a DJ and themed fun, the event brings people together for a cause that’s close to Ashton’s heart.

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Looking Ahead to the Final Bash

Sadly, next year’s bash will be bittersweet.

The 10th and final celebration will also mark Tammy’s 50th birthday, making it a fitting grand finale to nearly a decade of fundraising fun. If history is any indication, Ashton will find a way to make that last lemonade stand one for the record books.