A popular family-friendly festival returns to Port McNicoll this weekend.
The Portarama Family Festival promises something for every taste with a full slate of offerings.
“It’s a celebration dedicated to celebrating our town and the history of our town,” local resident and past organizing committee president Nadine Woods earlier told MidlandToday.
“We’re pretty proud of it. It’s your Canadiana little-town festival.”
Created in 1985 as a Victoria Day festival, Portarama has been a huge hit ever since. Organized by a dedicated group of community volunteers, the family-oriented festival officially kicks off Friday evening with opening ceremonies at the village’s community centre at 6 p.m.
An hour later, classic rock bank The Mugs hits the centre’s stage with tickets costing $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
Besides a strong organizing committee helmed by dedicated local residents, the festival also relies on a team of 60 or so volunteers to make it happen and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Saturday features a bevy of events designed to suit every taste.
The festivities include a community parade beginning at 11 a.m., a village-wide garage sale along with a range of contests, games, Show n’ Shine Back Alley Cruisers, KUB KAR demonstrations and a craft and vendor show being held in a covered venue at the Talbot Park rink from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In the evening, many will be heading down to Patterson Park for 'music on the water' featuring performances by Plan Z, Misery Parade along with Edy and Friends prior to the impressive fireworks display.
And on Sunday, things get started with the Lions family breakfast followed by the always popular Paul Spencer Memorial Soapbox Derby that's sure to delight the young and young-at-heart.
For a full list of Portarama events, click here.
