Hundreds of people came ‘Back to the Burg’ for Forestburg’s Centennial Celebration from August 2 to August 4. Forestburg showed true community spirit, as many groups and the Centennial Committee came together through hard work and dedication to make this event a success and something to be proud of for years to come.
The festivities began on Friday, Aug. 2, with a family street dance beside the Community Centre and Fireworks at the Golf Course.
Saturday morning kicked off with a Fun Run and pancake breakfast for the travel club at the Firehall before the parade. The opening ceremony and history book launch took place at the new Devonian Park at the north end of Main Street.
There were many different activities to partake in throughout the weekend. This included an escape room set up at the library, a musical ride at the ball diamonds, children’s entertainment, photo exhibits, live history performers, a museum open house, coffee at the seniors Drop-in Centre, beer gardens, mini train rides, karaoke and live music at multiple locations.
The Friends of the Battle River Railway (FBRR) also had train rides to Heisler.
Seven hundred tickets were sold for the dinner Saturday night, which had two sittings at the Community Hall and was followed by a dance.
Sunday began with another pancake breakfast at the Fire Hall served by the Forestburg Dance Society.
The grain elevator museum was open, school tours were available and the outdoor swimming pool offered a free swim in the afternoon.
Joni Roberts brought her team of horses and gave free carriage rides down Main Street throughout the day.
Sunday ended with a Talent Show hosted by FCDPS (Forestburg Community Development and Promotion Society).
Entertainers included the Forestburg Dance Society, Brooke Pearcey, Veronica and Emily Williams, Jody Pettigrew, Rachel Dietz, Thea Young and Michelle Viste, The Stensons, Liz Siemans, Randy Howell, Carl Jahns, Curtain Call Community Theatre, Pam Sherman, Lorna Williams and Doug Bish, Quartet O’ Eight and E.G Edwards.
Funds raised are being put towards the Forestburg Community Centre and FCDPS.
Overall, the weekend proved to be historic with old memories shared and new memories made.
The Village of Forestburg was incorporated on August 19, 1919 with E.P Day, Wm. Smith Jr. and A. Sather serving on the first council.
Jody Pettigrew
ECA Review
