CANORA - An estimated 3,800 people gathered in Canora on Aug. 17 for Streetfest & Party in the Park, hosted by the Town of Canora Tourism Fundraising Committee. It was one of the largest turnouts for a local event in recent memory, according to Brandi Zavislak, community development officer and committee member.
“Everything went really well, better than expected,” said Zavislak. “We were astounded at the volume of people coming to our town. The weather was really nice, we couldn’t have picked a better day. I noticed a number of farmers were there. Most of them aren’t quite into harvest yet, but a few have started.”
Zavislak said the event attracted visitors from many parts of Saskatchewan: Saskatoon, Regina, Grenfell, Lemberg, Yorkton, Melville and more.
After a freak storm at last year’s event, organizers made the decision to move the vendors into King George Park, and closer to shelter if needed.
“We had 35 vendors, which was all we had room for in the park,” said Zavislak. “The park turned out to be a wonderful setting for the vendors and the visitors. The sun was shining, but everyone could get into the shade if needed.”
Musical performers The Zayshleys and the Jackie Guy band kept their fans entertained, taking advantage of the new stage at King George Park.
“Everyone loves the stage, we’re getting great feedback about the stage,” said Zavislak. “People from nearby communities such as Canora Beach, Good Spirt, Kamsack told us they’re amazed by all we’ve been able to accomplish.”
Canora native Clay Sleeva, who won the SJHL championship while playing for the Melfort Mustangs this past season, brought the Canterra Seeds Cup to the park. Sleeva cheerfully answered questions and posed for pictures with the Cup, many of them with aspiring young hockey players, no doubt dreaming of similar success in their hockey futures.
Zavislak said Sleeva’s contribution to the day was “phenomenal.”
An annual highlight is the car show put on by the Canora Cruisers Car Club, and this year was no different. Over 120 vehicles were registered, and organizers said there were a significant number of additional vehicles in town for the show that weren’t registered.
Youngsters at the Streetfest & Party in the Park had lots of fun, taking in the bouncy castles as well as the always popular petting zoo; “very busy, lots of kids,” reported Zavislak.
With several thousand people in town, Canora businesses had plenty of traffic coming through their doors during the day.
“Tim Hortons was so busy then had to call in extra staff,” said Zavislak.
She didn’t want to reveal too many secrets about next year’s event, but Zavislak did share that, “It’s probably going to be more of a music event with some really big names.”
Funds raised during Canora Tourism Fundraising Committee events go back to the committee for further community improvements.
“This is all thanks to our hardworking committee members who works tirelessly to put on these events,” said Zavislak. “Our community minded members always step up, and they love supporting other community groups as well.”
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