Saturday, July 1 was the special anniversary, with the Celebrate History Day the next day at the museums. According to Development Officer Dale Banman, the annual event went well again.
“The 150th went great,” Banman stated. “The day was perfect, lots of people, lots of involvement, great entertainment, great car show; as well the Celebrate History Day went very well too!”
There was some concern in the air a day or two before, as the forecast showed some chances of rain or thunderstorms. However, apart from a few drops early Saturday, everything turned out well on that front.
“Rain is inconvenient but we would go on no matter what, we have the rinks to use. Of course we are concerned about the weather, but we have no control.”
Banman said there were great crowds for the event. The car show, despite being down a few vehicles, drew very well. The Boissevain Lions Club, who were also celebrating their 60th year of serving in the community, served lunch at the car show, plus gave away over 300 pieces of birthday cake.
The entertainment stage and the children’s carnival in the evening at the fairgrounds drew more than a thousand people. The attitude was also great.
“Everybody was in a festive mood,” he said, “celebrating the birth of our country.”
The parade was a good one, with 39 entries. Banman said the pipe band was a great addition as it was the first time in the many years of Boissevain’s Canada Day they were able to book any band.
Among the highlights in his mind was the fact the Youth Group took over the dinner, which added a new group to the event. There was a great variety of entertainment on the stage, and the Beckoning Hills Fashion Show was a good addition. Dancing and music on the stage helped keep the crowd happy and engaged throughout the evening.
The fireworks are always a big part of the night, and it was likely the best show ever. Banman said they were only slightly longer this year, but there was plenty of sound and fury to keep everyone entertained. Next year they will likely tone them down again.
As for 2018, the development officer is giving nothing away.
“Plans are underway for the 151st, ideas are starting to come, you will just have to wait and see!”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff
PHOTOS BY ANNA LATIMER