Sylvan Lake’s Centennial is going to be celebrated in fine style this weekend, as the majority of events planned to mark 100 years of growth take place.
And judging from the opening salvo, last Saturday’s jubilee ceremony, those who partake are sure to be impressed.
Not really knowing what to expect when we heard that a series of vignettes or short stories would portray the community’s history decade by decade, we were amazed at the production.
Music fittingly selected to mirror the eras being presented was fabulously performed by members of the École H. J. Cody High School concert band.
Finding actors was a difficult task because there are a lot of shy people in our community, we were told. But those who got involved certainly provided the audience of hundreds of people with top calibre entertainment and more than a few laughs.
Now, as we move on towards the weekend, we feel it’s necessary to encourage all residents and friends to participate. Take in the different events planned to mark our milestone.
We guarantee you’ll find lots to interest and captivate you. How could you not with all the work that’s taken place organizing so many events.
The chamber of commerce meet and greet tomorrow (Friday) will feature displays of antiques, a fashion show, former Miss Mermaids, a variety of entertainment and a chili cook-off. The popular farmers’ market also runs during the afternoon.
Friday and Saturday there’s a Centennial quilt show in the curling rink. The Goonies is playing at the drive-in movie which will be in the Canadian Tire parking lot Friday evening.
Saturday’s chock full of activities for the whole family, beginning at 7 a.m. and running through to 1 a.m.
Highlights are obviously the firefighters pancake breakfast (everyone needs some sustenance), the Parade of the Century at 1 p.m. and then the Dance of the Century, featuring a different band and decade every hour from 3 p.m. on.
Other events include the library book sale, Community Partners garage sale and barbecue (yes, more food), kids toy and equipment sale, Sylvan Lake & District Archives historical display, charity pie auction, kidzone at the arena (from 3-5 p.m.), an open house at the new town hall and unveiling of ideas for a new lighthouse for the community.
Sunday continues the festivities with the Father’s Day fun run starting from Centennial Park at 10 a.m., and an art show and sale at Community Partners’ office on 50th Avenue.
100 Minutes of Music will be performed in Lions Legacy Park beginning at 1 p.m. where the RCMP dog show will also take place. Then there’s the Butterfield Acres Petting Zoo in the park at the corner of Lakeshore Drive and 50th Street.
There are sure to be other things we’ve missed. But this just provides a selection of how much there is to do in our community this weekend. Plan to get involved, attend the events and be part of the biggest party of the century in Sylvan Lake. You won’t regret it.