There was wind, but thankfully no rain for the sixth annual Boissevain Street Fest on September 12.
The annual fall event does showcase Manitoba’s ever-changing weather. Some years, it is blazing while others it is very cold. In 2026, temperatures were different depending on whether or not the sun was out that moment. Nonetheless the show went on, and as Boissevain-Morton Administrative Executive Melissa Perkins, one of the organizers said it was another fine event.
“While there were a few weather-related curveballs, overall the event was another great success celebrating for showcasing Boissevain,” Perkins said. “The wind and wind gusts certainly did affect things and cause some set up reconfigurations but we were grateful it was dry out. Given the rain experienced before and the forecast for more rain after, thankfully it did not rain during Saturday’s festivities. With Saturday being the only dry day in awhile that was good for the farmers who have had some very poor weather and conditions to contend with this harvest season. So while we certainly missed those busy working in the field during Street Fest, we absolutely understand. This year the weather was also chillier which definitely had more of a fall festival kind of feel and thankfully limited the wasps.”
The town wide garage sale, vendor market and Lions Soapbox Races got the day started. The children’s carnival and kid’s zone brought people out, especially early in the day. Perkins said the turtle clay creation station went over well, and there was a big crowd out for the pie eating contest, which included a youth category this year. The bingo was well attended and 130 came out to the Boissevain Community Theatre for the matinee. The Get Local Art Show and live demonstrations, held by the Arts Council was popular, with the gallery providing a space outside of the wind.
New events like the speed puzzling competition in the library and the downtown scavenger event were also fun and well attended.
Musically, the Suzuki Fiddlers did well on the outdoor stage and roaming the crowd, and Lyle Baldwin had them up and dancing even in the chilly weather. For the evening, 8 Track Shuffle provided great classic tunes and harmonies. It was a cool evening, so Perkins said they were happy to get ahold of patio heaters. It was a smaller turnout, but everyone had a great time, she said.
Despite the cooler and windier weather, Perkins said she has had very positive feedback about the event, with businesses reporting high sales and new people through the doors.
“For me personally, seeing downtown Boissevain buzzing with people and activity on a Saturday is my personal favorite part.”
As always, Perkins thanked volunteers and sponsors for making the event work. The committee will be getting together soon to do their review, but it looks like Street Fest has made its place in the Boissevain autumn.
“Collectively the event components all come together to provide that old time carnival and fair with free fun and entertainment,” Perkins explained. “Every year Street Fest grows more and more momentum with plans for even more festivities. There’s plenty of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and groups that would like to join in behind the scenes.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff
