SquidFest patrons love the new loos
By Mark Squibb
The 37th annual SquidFest has come and gone, and while popular events such as the 8 km race, pool party, beach party soiree and Sunday Funday market were as successful as ever, the real star of this year’s festival seemed to be the newly renovated Festival Ground bathrooms.
“I was at the wine and cheese tasting event, and everyone was like, ‘Have you been to the washrooms?’” joked councillor Mable Tilley. “It’s phenomenal.”
This year’s festival is the first since upgrades, including renovations to the bathrooms and stage area, were undertaken at the Festival Grounds. That work forced the relocation of several events during last year’s festival.
“There were a lot of compliments on the bathrooms,” agreed Mayor Laura Crawley. “The bathrooms are new, renovated, clean, fantastic. Everyone was super excited.”
Crawley also noted there were comments about the noticeable lack of smell hanging over the grounds due to the Town’s ongoing sewer work, and added the crowd at this year’s Funday Market was the biggest she’s ever seen.
Tilley added there were a few hiccups, or speedbumps, along the way, but staff handled them so well the public didn’t even notice them.
“So, when you have a major event like that, and you have some speedbumps, and the public doesn’t even realize they’re speed bumps, you know you have a good crew behind you,” said Tilley.
Councillor Sandra Crawley said staff are working to secure new dates for both the postponed drone light show, which was on tap in place of a traditional fireworks show and was delayed because of weather, and outdoor movie.
The Town extended it’s thanks to sponsors, volunteers, community partners, performers, vendors, staff, and residents.
Meanwhile, tickets are on sale for the August 29 “SquidFest Beach Party Goes Country,” featuring Steven Lee Olsen, Cripple Creek, and the province’s own Justin Fancy.