KAGAWONG—Despite the less than perfect weather conditions, especially Saturday, the Kagawong Winter Fest celebrations hosted by the Billings Recreation Committee and many community volunteers provided a little bit of something for everyone in the family.
The weekend activities started in style Friday evening with a wine and cheese party and live entertainment. Hosts and attendees wore some of their most elegant clothing, with live entertainment being provided by Mindemoya musician Jim Smith.
“We would like to welcome all of you to our second annual wine and cheese event, hosted by the (Billings) recreation committee,” said Sandi Hurcomb, a member of the committee. She introduced the members for the committee, and Mr. Smith.
“It’s nice to be here with everyone here tonight,” Mr. Smith told the packed house in the Park Centre. He described the music for the evening as ‘cocktail jazz.’ “I will be playing some older songs and some desperately older pieces,” he quipped, noting that he would be playing background music for the evening of socializing among those in attendance.
Carol Corneau explained that many different varieties of cheese (from various countries) were being provided to sample by those in attendance, along with meats and crackers, and fruit. There were even dessert cheeses, such as caramelized coffee cheese, cranberry white cheddar and others.
“We really appreciate all of your support,” Ms. Corneau told the gathering. “We have to have this type of support from the community to hold events like this.”
While the weather conditions did curtail some of the outdoor events on Saturday, there was still a large crowd on hand for all the activities that took place during the day. Among the activities was a chili cook-off with about 10 people taking part. The People’s Choice award was won by Mary Lewis.
Also held upstairs in the Park Centre was vendors tables set up and included the Manitoulin Snowdusters and Billings Volunteer Fire Department, along with Manitoulin Fire Fund, Kat’s Pet Supplies, Manitoulin WildER Med, and others.
Several vintage snowmachine owners brought and displayed their machines outside the Park Centre, and kids could be found sliding down Snow Mountain also at the North end of the parking lot.
Winter on Manitoulin Island photos, poetry and artwork was displayed inside the Park Centre on Saturday. And along with everyone having the chance to taste the delicious maple taffy, the kitchen at the Park Centre was open all day with many delicious items to choose from.
The day’s events concluded with a euchre tournament held in the downstairs area of the Park Centre.
