Snow Social in South Frontenac!

Kelli McRobert | Jan 24, 2024

Mother Nature had been kind up until the beginning of January when she decided to ‘catch up’ with her precipitation duties. Between the heavy rainstorms and then blizzard-like effects, there had been some concern about whether Snow Day would have the accumulation needed for quality outdoor fun.

The day started a bit chilly with – double digits, but it did not cool off the excitement of the kids as they rushed towards the towering snow mountain. Many lined up for the horse-drawn wagon rides (Whites Rides), and parents used every mode of transportation available to lug, pull, drag, and push, the toddlers between the numerous events.

Parking was available around the village and it was nice to see so many families bundled up and ready for some outdoor playtime. Elements Fitness & Wellness set up a fun obstacle course and Karley and Tanya helped the athletes, climb, crawl, and carry and work their way around a creative course. Snowshoes and kick sleds were another fun activity that circled the field in front of the colourful bouncy castle (Not So Amateur Amateurs) and yard games that were lakeside. Fire and Rescue were on the scene to demonstrate their safety techniques and gear, along with helpful OPP Auxiliary Police as they proudly strolled amongst the snowy frolickers.

Kingston Forest & Nature School had a fun activity station to inspire young minds and spirits to learn more about the outdoors and nature-based learning. You could challenge yourself to a scavenger hunt, shelter building, knot tying, and fire laying. Where was this when I was a kid? Greg Loft was also on site to share Indigenous Teachings around the fire, as friendly Storrington Lion’s Club volunteers helped kids build gooey Smores around the open pits.

It’s winter, so in Frontenac, that means that Stocksport is taking place, and kids could come and try a fun hit-the-target game and get to know a bit more about our local internationally ranked Stocksport team.

As with many of the great South Frontenac Township events, food plays a vital role in them. Families were not disappointed as the Salmon River Sugar Bush offered up snow taffy that took me back to sugar shack days with a heavenly sticky sensation as you lapped up the golden glory. Up the hill, you could enjoy the Beavertails Food Truck, and Kelly’s Chip Truck, or for a lighter snack you could gobble up some popcorn or cotton candy.

In the distance, tiny figures could be seen barrelling down the hill on the fab SF Township tubes as icy cold thrills froze faces as they plunged down the steep incline. This is one of the hits of the event as kids, and adults, climbed up ‘multiple’ times to feel that exhilarating swoosh down a frozen slope. Pure Canadian winter pleasure. It’s fun to see the adults re-find their inner child as they tumble off the tube, laughing, rolling, and enjoying the moment.

As the day continued, the ice was still not safe to go on, so the Frontenac Fury Girls Hockey Association had a scrimmage demonstration on the road and then offered a skills and drills clinic after the game. Throughout the day music played an integral part in the ambiance of the event. In the main tent (heated, no less), Bon Evans, Andrew Vanhorn from the Celtic Kitchen Party, and Chris Murphy with Jess Wedden, all kept the party alive as music filled the air to soothe our souls.

Over at Loughborough Public School, there was a vendor and craft fair to help those planning for next Christmas, yes, I said it. Sydenham Library was a nice indoor space to warm up little hands and feet as face painters demonstrated artistic skill as Yo-Yo Dave performed his comedic magic show. Freshly painted faces proudly left with customized critter balloons as they headed back out for some snowy fun. Families could also join a Winter Birds of SF walk with Gaye or meet up with Stana (Cataraqui Conservation) to explore the Cataraqui Trail which included track and scat identification. She even brought a large taxidermized Great Horned Owl.

And, if that was not enough to wear the kids (and parents) down, the Sydenham Legion offered hot chocolate and apple cider (Albion no.109 Masonic Lodge), as performers such as Evan Jackson, Whiskey Smoke, and Towwns belted out tunes for those seeking warmth both physically and mentally. Finally, Lenny’s Deli was lined up as volunteers and families enjoyed warm home-cooked meals such as chili, smoked meat, and all-day breakfast to keep the groups fuelled up before returning to the festivities.

Overall, a success! Even though there were a few tears when the horses Wayne & Carl (I think that was their names) had to leave, this is a well-executed event that truly demonstrates the heart of this community.

Connected, strong, family-oriented, and fun!

Thanks to all the volunteers who came out, sponsors, and of course Amanda P and her crew who truly are passionate about putting on an event for all ages.