Organizers are hoping for a bit more snowfall and winter weather prior to the Family Day long weekend, as the town prepare’s for its annual Shiver Fest weekend of fun.
“It’s just so much fun for the whole family,” says Town of St. Paul FCSS director Oralee Williams. Events slated to take place from Saturday to Monday include everything from an ice fishing derby, to Cabane a Sucre, and public swimming, along with a long list of other things.
The fun will start on Feb. 13 with free public skating at the Clancy Richard Arena from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., then public swimming for just $3 at the nearby Aquatic Centre will also take place. The tobogganing hill at Lagasse Park will also be host to some winter fun, like usual.
On Sunday, family bowling will be held at Parallel Lanes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for just $3 again. Main street skating will be taking place in the afternoon at the outdoor rink next to the St. Paul Foundry, and public swimming will again be taking place too.
Holiday Monday is the big day, according to Williams. Events will start with a pancake breakfast with the mayor and town council at 9 a.m. at Reunion Station. Sleigh rides and other fun will start at about 11 a.m., also at Reunion Station.
Last year, the event brought in about 600 guests, says Williams. Each year since the town has hosted a similar event on Family Day, the event has been growing to include more activities and more people.
“People are looking for stuff to do in the winter,” says Williams, adding, much of the weekend is offered for free, or at minimal cost.
The ice fishing derby will take place at the town’s pond, from noon to 3 p.m. The derby is a free event and prizes will be awarded. No fishing licenses are required to fish on Family Day weekend.
Along with a concession being offered by the St. Paul Family Benefit, the Mannwanis Centre will also be on hand to offer some tasty food, with bannock being offered from noon to 4 p.m.
And the ACFA Regionale de Saint-Paul will be set up from 1 to 4 p.m. for Cabane a Sucre. The group will be offering the traditional French treat of toffee on snow for $1, along with their own outdoor fun and games, also at Reunion Station.
Other attractions but on by organizers include a clown and glitter tattoos offered throughout the afternoon, says Williams. Snow games, bonfires, outdoor skating, a toboggan hill, marshmallow roast and music will keep people moving and warm during the event.
“There will be so much to do,” says Williams.
