DRAYTON – A 150th anniversary celebration here is set to include live music, a soap box derby, tournaments, a car show, fresh food, a parade and fireworks.
The event will take place June 27 to June 29 throughout Drayton.
Other highlights include games and activities for children, historical exhibits and an interdenominational church service that officials say will “reflect on the unity and strength of our community.”
Event organizers initially shared their vision for the celebration in February, and say now that the date is quickly approaching things are ready to go: volunteers are lined up, events are locked in, the Legacy Fund is looking strong, sponsors have been “outstanding” and the town is decorated.
Top sponsors for the event include Edge Mutual Insurance Company, Drayton Entertainment, the Township of Mapleton and Gleeson.
“The excitement is unreal,” members of The Mapleton Celebrates Drayton 150 Committee state, and the three-day celebration “is shaping up to be a weekend for the history books – a true community celebration full of music, food, fun, and connection.
“Whether you’re marching in the parade, dancing at the concerts, cheering on soapbox racers, browsing exhibits, enjoying the car show, or just soaking in the small-town magic, this is your celebration,” officials state.
Festivities will kick off at the Drayton Public Library on Friday morning with a performance from children’s entertainer Drew Ripley and his balloon making machine.
Other performers throughout the weekend include the Landlines, Randy and Willie Smart, the Rogerson Family, the New Nelson, the Moore Band, the Taylor Moore Band, Settlers Creek, Symply Skynyrd, Bootleg Creedence, Loose Change and the 12th Line Band.
“Let’s come together to honour the past, celebrate the present and launch a legacy for generations to come,” officials state.
For more information visit drayton150.ca.
