By Sandra Pilote
For the fourth year in a row, volunteers made the Family Day Winterfest a special Lowertown event. On Monday, February 15th, the Lowertown East Residents Committee and its partners delivered another fun-filled afternoon at Jules Morin Park, formerly known as Anglesea Square – the revitalized park located behind 40 Cobourg Street and at the east end of York Street.
The sun shone brightly and the outdoor activities attracted crowds of children of all ages. The horse-drawn wagon from Cundell stables on York Street gave rides in the nearby area. Even with two bouncy castles this year, the lines were continuous. The music from JUMP radio kept spirits on a high note.
Despite the unpredictable weather that meant ice-making was a big challenge, the community team managed to ensure that there was skating on the NHL-size rink. As an additional highlight this year, the Lowertown pool was opened for free swimming.
Beside the field house, a BBQ served up burgers and hot dogs, while hot chocolate and sweet snacks provided the extra fuel needed to participate. Inside the field house, there were tables where partner organizations had a variety of displays – everything from crime prevention to Lowertown history.
This community event in Lowertown happens because volunteers work to make an afternoon of fun for all ages. The presence of many youthful helpers added new liveliness to the usual group from the Lowertown East Residents Committee and the Lowertown Community Association.
In the 1930s and 40s, Lowertown’s annual winter carnivals brought out thousands of participants for fancy dress masquerades, broomball games and other activities. Decades later, Winterfest still draws large crowds and positive spirits. This was another opportunity to greet some neighbours and to get some enjoyment from winter, and all comers are already looking forward to next year.
By Sandra Pilote
For the fourth year in a row, volunteers made the Family Day Winterfest a special Lowertown event. On Monday, February 15th, the Lowertown East Residents Committee and its partners delivered another fun-filled afternoon at Jules Morin Park, formerly known as Anglesea Square – the revitalized park located behind 40 Cobourg Street and at the east end of York Street.
The sun shone brightly and the outdoor activities attracted crowds of children of all ages. The horse-drawn wagon from Cundell stables on York Street gave rides in the nearby area. Even with two bouncy castles this year, the lines were continuous. The music from JUMP radio kept spirits on a high note.
Despite the unpredictable weather that meant ice-making was a big challenge, the community team managed to ensure that there was skating on the NHL-size rink. As an additional highlight this year, the Lowertown pool was opened for free swimming.
Beside the field house, a BBQ served up burgers and hot dogs, while hot chocolate and sweet snacks provided the extra fuel needed to participate. Inside the field house, there were tables where partner organizations had a variety of displays – everything from crime prevention to Lowertown history.
This community event in Lowertown happens because volunteers work to make an afternoon of fun for all ages. The presence of many youthful helpers added new liveliness to the usual group from the Lowertown East Residents Committee and the Lowertown Community Association.
In the 1930s and 40s, Lowertown’s annual winter carnivals brought out thousands of participants for fancy dress masquerades, broomball games and other activities. Decades later, Winterfest still draws large crowds and positive spirits. This was another opportunity to greet some neighbours and to get some enjoyment from winter, and all comers are already looking forward to next year.