As 2024 closes, the communities of Watrous and Manitou Beach are celebrating a year filled with vibrant activities, cultural events, and a wealth of entertainment for residents and visitors alike. From the arts to music, food, and outdoor recreation, the area has proven to be a destination where creativity, nature, and community spirit intersect.
According to Jeff Siegfried, Community Enhancement Director for the Watrous Manitou Marketing Group, this year was particularly successful in bringing together local organizations, merchants, and vendors to create a diverse and engaging calendar of events.
“Watrous and Manitou Beach have truly become a hub of activity,” Siegfried says. “The communities have embraced a wide array of events that cater to all ages and interests. We’ve seen incredible participation and support from both locals and visitors.”
One of the standout features of 2024 was the flourishing arts scene in the area. The Gallery on 3rd, Little Manitou Art Gallery, and ODA Coffee and Wine Bar played a pivotal role in curating an array of exhibitions and workshops that showcased various artistic media. These venues helped foster creativity and artistic expression throughout the summer months, drawing in art enthusiasts from near and far.
The Watrous Manitou Heritage Center also impressed visitors with its blend of well-curated permanent displays and seasonal pop-ups. The museum’s educational offerings were enhanced by special events, including appearances from Indigenous storyteller Lindon J Linklater and artist Diane Janvier-Dugan, which further enriched the cultural experience of the region.
For those with a passion for literature, Watrous and Manitou Beach offered several literary festivals, as well as a self-guided Poetry Post Tour that stretched throughout Manitou Beach. Local writers' groups contributed to the literary spirit of the area, welcoming book lovers and aspiring authors alike.
As a hotspot for live entertainment, Manitou Beach kept the music flowing with weekly performances across venues such as ODA, Mike’s Beach Bar, Manitou Waters Mercredi’s Stage, Little Manitou Art Gallery and Danceland. Additionally, the Manitou Beach Busker Festival and The Salt Shaker music series added to the lively atmosphere, with performances from local talent and visiting artists. The Watrous and Area Arts Council also played a crucial role in bringing musical performances to the area.
The region’s popularity as a tourist destination was also fueled by the renowned Manitou Springs Mineral Spa and Resort, which attracted visitors from all over North America and beyond. The spa was the central gathering point for the Canada Day parade, celebrations, and fireworks, alongside the Village Rec Board’s efforts to ensure a fun and memorable holiday experience for all.
Dining in the area was a treat for food lovers. Local eateries offered everything from huge ice-cream cones and milkshakes to hearty burgers and fries, while several sit-down restaurants provided a variety of delicious meals in charming settings.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Manitou and District Regional Campgrounds proved to be a popular spot. Visitors took advantage of the walking trails, the off-leash dog park, and the proximity to all that Manitou Beach had to offer. Golf lovers also had plenty to enjoy, with traditional golf, mini-golf, and even Disc Golf at Manitou Beach. The area's sports offerings were rounded out by several successful horseshoe tournaments, as well as the well-maintained Wellington Park, walking trails, and dog park.
Nature lovers had much to appreciate in Watrous and Manitou Beach, particularly the stunning sunsets and opportunities for stargazing and aurora viewing. Evenings provided a magical experience for visitors at the Salty Cinema Drive-In, which offered star-lit movie nights showcasing new releases coinciding with North American premiere dates.
In Watrous, the fresh-water swimming pool remained a popular spot throughout the summer, with a full slate of swimming lessons and open swim times. Meanwhile, the Watrous ball diamonds hosted numerous tournaments, creating an exciting atmosphere for baseball and softball fans.
For automobile enthusiasts, the late July Watrous Fun Run brought out an impressive collection of chrome cruisers. This annual event has become a signature summer highlight, drawing car lovers from across the region to celebrate classic vehicles in a festive environment.
Looking back on this bustling year, Siegfried concludes, “It’s been incredible to see so many people enjoying everything Watrous and Manitou Beach have to offer. This year truly reinforced the area as a vibrant community and a destination where everyone can find something to enjoy.”