DRAYTON – Officials say the Drayton 150 Celebration, held June 27 to 29, was a resounding success.
“The turnout has been fabulous,” said Drayton 150 volunteer Linda Cherrey on Sunday.
“We couldn’t have imagined how many people showed up.”
Each day brought a new lineup of entertainment. Friday night featured chicken wings and live music and Saturday was busy with various children’s activities, a breakfast and dinner, as well as the very popular car show, parade and soapbox derby.
To conclude the weekend, Sunday offered guests breakfast, dinner, a pickle ball tournament, live music and a fireworks display.
At Friday’s opening ceremony, guests were welcomed by Senator Rob Black, Wellington County Warden Chris White, Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson, Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae and MP John Nater.
It was also announced that due to an excess of funds raised for the celebration, organizers will start the Drayton 150 Legacy Fund, which will donate money to various organizations in Drayton.
Event officials expressed their excitement and gratitude during the opening ceremony, with a round of applause going out to the dozens of volunteers that made the weekend possible.
Saturday’s soapbox derby was a popular attraction for kids and young teens, who took to the street to race handmade soapbox cars. The event took place on Wood Street and saw over 20 racers competing. While some were determined to win the gold, others were just excited to race.
“I was faster than last time,” said young racer Theodore Vandenberg.
Saturday’s car show was also a huge success, as the fairgrounds was nearly full of vintage cars and trucks. Awards were given out in categories such as farthest traveled, best custom, best truck and best car.
The parade on Saturday was well attended, with some members from the car show making an appearance in their flashy rides.
Sunday’s live music and warm summer weather was the perfect ending to the weekend celebrations. Kids were treated to bouncy castles, cotton candy and a special visit from Drayton firefighters.
The weekend’s celebrations ended with a bang, as fireworks lit up the sky in a colourful display on Sunday night.
The Advertiser was unable to get a final update from event organizers by press time on Monday.
