ASSINIBOIA — Assiniboia is known for offering multiple events and activities to keep residents at home, rather than travelling to a larger centre for entertainment options.
Small towns, like Assiniboia, use community events and activity to connect their residents. It keeps old traditions alive and provides something to look forward to while making new traditions as well. Hosting activities can help attract visitors by showcasing what makes the town unique, which helps build a strong sense of community pride and accomplishment.
The Southland Co-op Centre is a home base for many of these activities. These include an abundance of hockey games during the winter including hosting off-site WHL and SJHL games or having casual tailgate parties outside where residents can enjoy the big screen for Rider games or other bit ticket events. Often these outdoor activities include food and are an opportunity to gather with other residents.
Southland Co-op Centre was home to two big events this year. Streetheart drew a large crowd for their performance and the popular Australian show, Thunder Down Under, was another big hit when they came to the community in July.
The community’s Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs host activities throughout the year which Santa Day and Easter events.
Assiniboia’s Museum has held several events in 2024 including guest speakers, travelling exhibits, a 50th anniversary celebration and a September car show.
Shurniak Gallery, in addition to featured art exhibits, has been home to several special events including the artist retreat and special activities to demonstrate and teach art forms. This year’s Garden Party Fundraiser, featuring Jeffrey Straker, was another successful opportunity for residents.
Canada Day festivities are one of the bigger events hosted each year and offer something for every generation, with many of the activities throughout the day free to participants.
Even the Assiniboia RCMP Detachment gets on board offering activity as they enlisted members of the public to join them in decorating the detachment at Christmas as well as hosted a drive-through barbecue during National Policing Week.
The community’s chamber of commerce has hosted Lunch and Learn targeted at business audiences and community members. The recent inaugural Brewing in Business celebration is bound to have inspired the community to continue the tradition.
Seasonal activities help generate excitement and engagement amongst community members.
Assiniboia’s Recreation & Community Wellness Manager, Stephanie VanDeSype, said in an earlier story in Assiniboia Times, her goal when she stepped into her role in Assiniboia was to start new initiatives and programming that would engage the community.
“Christmas can be a time of joy and celebration, but can also be a time of sorrow for those who are grieving loved ones who have passed. Through our multiple Christmas and seasonal programs, we hope to engage every member of our community, and bring joy, peace and love.”
The first year of Twinkle Lane was held in 2024, which involved decorating campsites in the Assiniboia Campground located next to the swimming pool. It provided another opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy during the Christmas season.
Another annual tradition Assiniboia offers is the Twinkle Tour, which entered its fifth year. Residents are encouraged to decorate their homes and yards and enter the tour for everyone to enjoy.
While not under the direction of VanDeSype, the tradition of the festival of trees will continue in Assiniboia.
There is also a parade of lights in December.
Better Together community engagement activity has been a big hit and with regular Tuesday lunches, sponsored by community businesses, residents could gather to enjoy a budget-friendly lunch while enjoying an opportunity to connect with friends and neighbours.
In addition to this activity being a bonus to residents offering events right in town is also a great drawing card for visitors. When extra traffic comes to town additional economic activity results. Each event hosted also supports local businesses.
It's easy to see why Assiniboia is referred to as the “Heart of the Golden South.”
