Community picnic planned for Aug. 7 at museum

ABOYNE – A Community picnic will take place on Aug. 7 on the grounds of the Wellington County Museum and Archives (WCMA). 

Featuring live entertainment and a teddy bear picnic, officials say it’s set to be a fun day.

Longtime Fergus resident and event organizer Pat Mestern first thought of holding a Community Picnic back in March. 

Several locals wanting a fun outing with their kids approached her asking if she knew of any such events happening during the summer months, and not knowing of any, Mestern decided to put on her own.

A main feature of the day is the Teddy bear picnic. Children are encouraged to bring stuffed animals, and there will be six Teddy bear competitions with different categories, and a parade.

“I imagine a lot of teddy bears in wagons,” Mestern said.

People are encouraged to pack their own lunches for the picnic (food trucks will be at the event) and should bring lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on.

The event is free, but donations to the WCMA will be accepted. 

Everyone involved with the event is volunteering, Mestern noted.

Mestern doesn’t typically run events, but she does have past planning experience and agreed to take on the project knowing plenty of volunteers would come out of the woodwork to help – and they have. 

Mestern said she hopes the event will provide people with an opportunity to sit and relax.

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