Focusing on Family, Fun, and Friendship

Kelli McRobert | Feb 23, 2022

In 1990, Alberta decided to establish a Family Day, that would be an annual holiday … since then five provinces have adopted Feb 21st as a day to celebrate and enjoy any version of ‘family’. Nowadays, it is difficult to do anything without paying some type of fee. As gas prices rise, grocery costs soar, and the overall cost of living creeps higher, it is so nice to attend an event where it is truly about having fun and enjoying friends and family both 2 and 4 legged, for free.

Arriving at the Frontenac Arena in Godfrey on Family Day Monday (February 21) I scanned the tubing hill and could see kids careening down with faces full of smiles and frosty tips around their toques. The speed of the racers was great as they sped down the slopes with enthusiastic glee. Parents stood topside and cheered them on.

The roadway was lined with cars as many took advantage of the event, which was hosted by the Township of South Frontenac. Vehicles were personally greeted by the Mayor, who directed us to the next volunteer to coordinate our parking.

Line ups were short as the eager children awaited a wagon ride with Carl and Katie (horses) who were harnessed up in their formal leather reins; ready to escort them through the winding roadways down the hill and a gentle loop back in the frosted landscape. The subdued yet rhythmic ‘clop clop clop’ of hooves was romantic and comforting, a lovely back drop to the laughter and gleeful screeches of children playing in the snow.

Activities were abundant, including snow painting with vibrant coloured paint and a mini obstacle course to challenge the young at heart; fire pits to warm up with a soothing hot beverage.

The OPP made a guest appearance to support the community, and offered a sneak peek into the world of law enforcement.

Inside the arena, skaters were gliding gracefully or romping about on skates as music kept them entertained. A snow mountain rose outside beside the giant bowling pitch, and kick sledders circled the fields as moms and dads dug deep for their inner child. For some it was a chance to let loose and ‘play’.

It was a refreshing break from all the sadness and gloom that has recently been cast upon us and felt like a fresh start as we ease into spring. It was also a great reminder that the most important things are friends, family, and a sense of community, a community that accepts us for who we are, and does it’s best to provide fun and safe entertainment for all ages.

Thank you to everyone who came out and supported the event, and to the organizers and volunteers who took the time to make it a great success!

I look forward to seeing how you outdo yourselves next year!