PAYNTON, Sask. — It’s almost time to pucker up and celebrate the tangiest stalk in the garden as Paynton prepares to host the inaugural Saskatchewan Rhubarb Festival on June 21.
Organizers say community support has been overwhelming, with dozens of vendors, volunteers, and sponsors signing on to help launch the province’s first-ever festival dedicated to rhubarb.
The day kicks off at 11 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring special guests Cut Knife-Turtleford MLA James Thorsteinson, Reeve Kevin Garrett and Mayor David Pelletier. Immediately following, the winners of Saskatchewan’s first Rhubarb Baking Competition will be crowned—and guests can sample the sweet and tart creations at the Rhubarb Tea.
From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., festivalgoers can browse vendor booths, bid on silent auction items, and check out the kids’ zone, which includes face painting, crafts, a bouncy castle, wagon rides and a tractor show.
A cash-only beer and wine garden will run until 11 p.m., with the Bee and Thistle Winery offering a signature non-alcoholic Rhubarb-Haskap slushy for those looking to cool off without the buzz.
Live music in the garden will feature Eldon Atcheynum and the Table Mountain Boys in the afternoon. Known for their welcoming spirit and country sound, the band often invites local musicians to join them for an impromptu jam.
The committee says there’s still time to get involved. Baking contest entries are being accepted until Monday, June 16, and spots remain open for tractor show participants, vendors, and food services.
All proceeds from the festival will go toward community initiatives in the town of Paynton.
For more information or to register, email BarbFest25@hotmail.com.