The summer sun is here, and so is a full lineup of local events to keep the days bright and busy. From vintage cars to muddy trails, and from fireworks to food trucks, there’s something for everyone happening this weekend and well into next week.
MacGregor Fair kicks off the fun
The MacGregor Fair gets rolling this evening with food booths opening at 5 p.m. and horse games beginning at 7. Local band Busted takes the stage from 7 to 10 p.m., and beer gardens will be open until the night winds down. The fair continues all weekend with a packed schedule of activities for all ages.
Portage car show rolls into Republic Park
If fairs aren’t your thing or you’re just looking for a change of scenery, the Fehr Auto Vintage Car Club is hosting a classic car show this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Republic Park in Portage la Prairie. Visitors can expect a showcase of beautifully preserved vintage vehicles, a live DJ, food concessions, a silent auction and a 50/50 draw. If rain clouds roll in, the event will be moved to Sunday.
Quad derby returns with big prizes
Also on Saturday, the 3rd Annual Kinosota Trail Quad Derby launches from the yard of John and JoAnne Kleemola near Alonsa. Registration starts at 10 a.m., and riders hit the trail at noon. There’s more than just mud and motors, participants have a chance at a $2,000 top cash prize. Proceeds from the event go to STARS Ambulance, with Sandy Bay First Nation contributing half the winnings. A canteen and silent auction will also be available onsite.
Canada Day celebrations across the region
Stride Place in Portage will be buzzing this Canada Day. The July 1st celebration starts with a pancake breakfast and bike decorating, followed by the opening ceremony and cake at noon. The day features live music, a fundraising BBQ, kids’ activities and public swimming at Splash Island. The festivities wrap up with fireworks over Crescent Lake at 11 p.m., rain or shine.
For those heading out of town, Elm Creek has a full day planned Monday as well. Starting with pancakes and a bike decorating session at 8:30 a.m., the community parade begins at 11. Throughout the afternoon, families can enjoy face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides, vehicle shows, bouncy castles and more. Free pizza, fries and mini donuts will be served downtown at 5 p.m., followed by a truck and tractor pull at 7 and a fireworks show at 11.
Gladstone is also celebrating on Monday, with festivities starting at 12:30 p.m. The Co-op Bike Parade kicks off the day at the Community Hall, followed by crafts, a bouncy house and bubble fun in the green space from 1 to 3. A free swim at the Legion Aquatic Centre runs from 2 to 5, and fireworks cap off the evening at 10:45 p.m. at the Ag Grounds.
Live music at Stride Place
The Kelly Human Memorial Concert is back this week, taking place at the Old Fellows Band Stand at Stride Place. The BBQ starts serving at 5 p.m., with music kicking off at 5:30. Performers include the Métis Prairie Steppers, Colleen Bryce and Paul Shepard. A 50/50 draw and raffle tickets will be part of the night’s fundraising efforts.
Portage Ex to close out the week
Looking ahead to next weekend, the Portage Ex rolls into town July 4 to 6. This year’s fair features a midway, horse and cattle shows, a petting zoo and live music. Shoppers can browse through vendor booths and domestic displays, while the updated kids' play space will keep the little ones entertained. With sunshine in the forecast, it's shaping up to be a perfect summer weekend on the island.
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