South Frontenac Lakes & Trails Festival

Jul 17, 2024

The Lakes & Trails Festival this past weekend was an absolute blast, brimming with activities for everyone! Adventurers took on the 6K or 14K bike treks, while others ran or walked the 5K or 10K trails, expertly guided by the Frontenac Run Club. The lake was a sparkling playground, perfect for boaters towing skilled skiers under the sunny sky. The Sydenham Lake Canoe Club launched canoes, dazzling onlookers with their skills and helping new paddlers master their strokes.

Families reveled in a variety of attractions, from the thrilling Fire Truck demonstration and vibrant face painting to interactive booths. The library’s summer book reading challenge offered exciting prizes, and Cataraqui Conservation’s turtle naming contest was a hit. Participants also took home wildflower seed packets to support local bees and insects.

Lakeside, toddlers in their nautical best frolicked in the warm waters of Sydenham Lake, while moms in bikinis joined the fun, splashing and playing with their little ones. Lifeguards kept a watchful eye as swimmers cooled off in the deeper waters.

Down the path, the Girl Guides’ craft station was a hive of creativity, with Nature Suncatchers and Fairies being made, and a fascinating bag-weaving demonstration. Hungry festival-goers enjoyed delicious lunch deals from Lenny’s Deli, served with small-town charm and friendly smiles. The Paper Plate www.thepaperplatefood.com offered mouth-watering dishes for both meat lovers and vegetarians, and Sydenham Convenience & Café handed out ice cream to cool off the sweaty, flushed athletes returning from their treks.

As ospreys soared overhead, yogis struck graceful poses under the morning sun, led by Nomad Yogini. www.nomadyogini.ca On the courts, pickleball players battled it out, inspiring new enthusiasts to join in the fun. www.tennisclubs.ca/kingston

The Township of South Frontenac truly pulled out all the stops to make this event fun and inviting for all ages. It showcased the fantastic outdoor activities available in our extended backyards. If you missed it this year, be sure to mark your calendar for next year. As families packed up and tents came down, everyone headed home for a well-deserved rest after a full day of fun and activities in Sydenham. Memories were made, and perhaps a few new skills were learned and explored