Ready for Summer Fest 09? Family fun is about to begin

Don’t even think about heading out of town on the long weekend, not when there is so much happening in our own hometown.

Sticky cotton candy, carnival rides, outdoor music and parades, say festival season has arrived and it is happening right here during Windsor West Hants Summer Fest July 30 to August 2.

It has taken months of hard work, but the fun is about to begin. Event president Richard Cole says he is ready for it, “I’ve got to say, I’m pumped.”

There will be tons of action this year, including more activities for young people and families. “I think the big change is that we’ve geared the event more toward families,” Cole said. “We want to make this a festival for all ages.”

Family friendly entertainment

Instead of a beer tent on the waterfront, the big top will host an array of food vendors, artisans and family entertainment, event coordinator Amy Parker says. “It just makes the space more user friendly and lets families enjoy the whole waterfront experience together.” The beer tent will return during the evening, for ages 19 and over.

Children can enjoy carnival rides along the waterfront and free performances at the gazebo, from the Al Bernard Magic Show to a hip hop demo. “We really want to draw families to the waterfront again and bring it back to life this year,” said Cole.

Windsor Recreation in on the action, hosting a four-hour Summer Fest Extravaganza for kids at Elmcroft Park and Hants Aquatic Center Friday, July 31. “Thursday and Friday are pretty much dedicated to events for children,” Parker said. Fun includes special deals at both Windsor Playland Park and Windsor Bowling Center, and a free teen dance at the waterfront gazebo.

On Sunday, Haliburton House hosts a BYOP, bring your own picnic, event with fun for the whole family. “We have really put a lot of effort into expanding what we have to offer young people in the area this year,” said Cole.

Barra MacNeils headline event

A weekend highlight will be the Saturday evening concert under the big top, featuring Hal Bruce and the Barra MacNeils.

Cole admits it was quite a coup to sign them on. “I’m pretty excited to have the Barra MacNeil’s here. They are an internationally renowned Celtic group,” he said. “What they put on is more than a concert, it’s a performance and it’s a real privilege and treat to have them here in our town.”

Although the event has lost a few contributors due to lack of volunteers, it has gained new interests, he added. The Farmer’s Market is involved with the weekend’s activities on the waterfront and Utata Gallery is combining efforts with the annual Arts Council’s Festival of Art all weekend long.

The Windsor Business Enhancement Society has always been a big supporter Cole noted and this year's Street Fair will be as great as ever. In addition, WBES agreed to continue the free concert series at the gazebo all weekend long.

Celebrating history

With the name change from Sam Slick to Summer Fest Cole says organizers have hit a few glitches, but all in all there has been more good feedback than bad. “We’re not turning our backs on the past, we’re celebrating the future and so far people are very excited about his year’s event and having something everyone can take part in and enjoy.”

Although the name has changed, the annual parade will go on as usual. There may even be a few top hats in the crowd. “I think it would be great to see some period costumes in the parade again.,” Cole said. “Both Haliburton House and Shand House are a big part of our Heritage and this event is about representing all aspects of our area and history.” “We’ve worked really hard at providing events that can include the everyone,” he said. “It’s gonna be a blast.”

For a full listing of events go to www.windsorsummerfest.ca