Category Archives: Events

Post for new events happening at the Creating Centre de créativité in Vankleek Hill, Ontario.

Vankleek Hill Fair: A Yearly Tradition of Fun for All

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Experience the excitement of the Vankleek Hill Fair, an annual event that promises fun for everyone. This year’s fair will not disappoint. The fair officially kicked off on Thursday with a lively parade featuring horses, antique cars, and decorated farm trucks, setting the stage for a weekend of entertainment.

One of the standout features of the parade was the presence of the Jordan Leigh Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and addiction. The foundation showcased a derby car that attendees could win by purchasing a raffle ticket, with all proceeds going towards their important cause.

Anyone wishing to attend can purchase affordable tickets that grant access to all the thrilling rides, which are a hit with adults and children alike. From classic carousel rides to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, there is no shortage of fun!

The tempting smells of local food fill the air as you wander through the open space, which will make it hard for you to choose where to eat, but the affordability makes it easy to select a bit of each place to share and taste. Pizza Anjou offers mouthwatering pizza slices that will bring you coming back for more. I am always on the lookout for a good pizza, and the dough, the sauce and the fresh toppings make this pizza place one of my favourites. At the same time, Moonshine Smoke House delights taste buds with its big-tasting sandwiches and fried pickles. And remember the deep-fried Oreos you can find while walking through the fair!

In addition to the delicious food and exhilarating rides, the fair also featured an exhibition showcasing prize-winning products, house plants, decorated cowboy boots, and children’s hand-painted art. Attendees could also browse through local businesses selling handmade soaps, aprons, and barbecue sauces or partake in fun activities like face painting or getting a henna tattoo.

As the sun sets, the fair becomes a festive activity hub. The outdoor bar, open to adults in the evening, offers a place to relax with a drink and enjoy live music. The sounds of monster trucks roaring and cattle mooing mix with the chatter of enthusiastic fairgoers, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

For those looking for a memorable and educational experience, there was even a cattle exhibition on Thursday showcasing these majestic animals’ beauty and diversity. It was a great opportunity for adults and children to learn more about these creatures and appreciate their important role in our agriculture industry.

 

 

Take advantage of the remaining days of the Vankleek Hill Fair until Sunday, August 18th. Check the fair’s website for the entire event schedule and join in on the festivities. With delicious food, thrilling rides, a petting zoo, dirt bikes and various entertainment options, the fair promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

https://vankleekhillfair.ca/

Link to Enter The Jordan Leigh Foundation raffle:

https://go.rallyup.com/jordanleighfoundationderby/Campaign/Details

Be Prepared: First Aid Training at The Creating Centre

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Emergencies and accidents can happen when we least expect them. Being equipped with the necessary skills to respond effectively is crucial. First aid training is vital in preparing individuals for such situations, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to act swiftly and potentially save lives.

On July 20, National Capital First Aid will host their first aid training at the Creating Centre of Vankleek Hill. Aiming to equip more individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to handle emergencies effectively, potentially making a significant difference in the lives of those around them.

One person who truly gets the significance of first aid training is Tammie Martin, a Red Cross instructor at National Capital First Aid. Drawing on her experience as a military primary care paramedic and volunteer firefighter, Tammie recently shared some insights in a Q&A session for individuals wishing to participate in the forthcoming training.

. What qualifications and experience do your instructors have in delivering first-aid training?

I am a Red Cross first aid instructor working with National Capital First Aid, a Red Cross Training Partner. The owner is an RN, and instructors come from mostly medical backgrounds. I was in the military as a Primary Care Paramedic and Volunteer Firefighter.

. What topics are covered in your first aid training courses?

First Aid & CPR of various levels is provided. Students learn how to respond to emergencies and how to give first aid to a wide range of injuries. They will also be trained in adult/child/infant CPR as well as the use of Automatic External Defibrillators (AED)

. How long are your first aid training courses, and what is the format (e.g., in-person or online)?

Courses are offered in a blended format, which means that students will complete a knowledge-based online course on their own time, followed by a one-day hands-on skills training and assessment.

. Do you provide certification upon completing the first aid training course?

Once both portions of the blended course are completed, certification is issued through the Red Cross and will meet school, employment, or professional needs. However, anyone can take a course for personal benefits as well.

. How do you think this training benefits people?

Training enables everyone to be prepared in the event of an emergency. Accidents can happen anywhere, and as a result, someone who has taken a course might just save a coworker, family member or a complete stranger.

 

National Capital First Aid also provides first aid training and offers courses for parents, grandparents, and babysitting.

To learn more about the courses offered by National Capital First Aid, visit their website at https://nationalcapitalfirstaid.com/

Follow the link below to reserve your spot for July 20 at the Creating Centre Vankleek Hill.

https://nationalcapitalfirstaid.com/event/on-this-day-you-can-register-for-the-in-class-component-for-standard-first-aid-cpr-c-aed-or-emergency-first-aid-cpr-or-cpr-c-aed-18/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR26Vlm-EFZB2eyvXrxQ_dOPDwjnx-WmFODuKctIu8v9L98CR1BwvB3QwpA_aem_Xi20y6zt7Or_5uBQaVzU9A#tribe-tickets

Experience the Magic of VKH Porchfest: A Celebration of Music, Community, and Summer Vibes on Saturday, July 13

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Come enjoy the enchantment of live music in a unique setting at Vankleek Hill Porchfest. This annual festival promises a day filled with captivating melodies, talented musicians, and a welcoming ambiance that celebrates the spirit of music.

Immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a music festival is an experience like no other. The sights and sounds of talented musicians performing live create an electrifying energy that can uplift your spirits and leave you with lasting memories. And when that festival takes place in Vankleek Hill, surrounded by picturesque porches and a close-knit community, the experience becomes even more magical.

 

Vankleek Hill Porchfest, scheduled for Saturday, July 13, offers a special opportunity to enjoy live music in a relaxed setting. The event, organized by the Vankleek Hill Live Music Co-Op, showcases local talent while providing a platform for artists to share their music with a supportive audience. By attending Porchfest, you not only get to discover new musicians and genres, but you also play a part in supporting the thriving music scene in Vankleek Hill.

 

Supporting local musicians has numerous perks:

  1. It helps nurture and grow your local music scene, creating a vibrant and diverse cultural environment.
  2. Supporting local musicians often means creating a more personal and memorable connection with the artists. It also provides financial support directly to the artists, allowing them to continue pursuing their passion and creating more music for everyone to enjoy.
  3. Supporting local musicians can help build a sense of partnership and pride in your local music scene, fostering a supportive network for emerging artists.

One of the bands that will be performing is The Vankleek Hill Fiddlers. The group, formed by a passionate collective of amateur musicians and skilled professionals, has captivated audiences for over 45 years. Their fiddler music carries an enchanting quality that will transport you to a different time and place. As you make your way to the Creating Centre during Porch Fest, be prepared to dance to their captivating tunes.

Another thing to mention is that spending time outdoors at Porchfest is the chance to bask in the warm summer weather while enjoying fantastic music. The open-air setting creates a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for kicking back and soaking in the sounds that fill the air. Whether you’re a fan of singer-songwriters, Celtic tunes, folk melodies, rock anthems, or country ballads, there’s something for everyone at Porchfest.

 

 

This event allows neighbours to unite, enjoy music, and honour the talent of performing musicians by walking from one porch to another, listening to various bands, and engaging with fellow music lovers.

So, if you’re looking for a memorable and enriching experience that combines great music and the beauty of the outdoors, mark your calendar for Vankleek Hill Porchfest. Join in the festivities, discover new bands, and participate in something truly special.

 

 

Check out the lineup:

 

12:00 PM: 50 Proof (Arbor Gallery Stage)

12:15 PM: Marie-Eve Vezina (50 Derby Street Stage)

12:30 PM: Ken Duff (29 Hamil Street Stage)

12:45 PM: Brain Dead Geniuses (31 Derby Street)

1:00 PM: Thomas Dion (80 Main St Stage)

1:15 PM: Knocking Sparks (95 Higginson Street Stage)

1:30 PM: VKH Fiddlers (Vankleek Hill Creating Centre – TBC)

1:45 PM: Rhett James (Windsor Tavern Stage)

2:00 PM: A Boy Named Stew (48 Wall Street Stage)

2:15 PM: Jeff Holtby (102 Higginson Street Stage)

2:30 PM: Mike Simpkin (43 Derby Street Stage)

2:45 PM: Marven James (27 High St Stage)

3:00 PM: Libby and Cal (54 Main Street – TBC)

3:15 PM: Jema Jane (22 Stanley – TBC)

3:30 PM: Celtic Flare (95 Higginson Street Stage)

3:45 PM: Balance (Windsor Tavern Stage)

4:00 PM: JR and the Gator (27 High St Stage)

4:15 PM: Norm Campeau (31 Derby Street Stage)

4:30 PM: The Acoustic Collective (Main Stage)

5:00 PM: Peter Scott & Natasha Caron (29 Hamil Street Stage)

5:15 PM: Catherine Larocque (115 High St Stage)

5:30 PM: Victor Courte (95 Higginson Street Stage)

5:45 PM: Jam Night (Windsor Tavern Stage)

Follow the Facebook page for more info:
https://www.facebook.com/vkhporchfest

 

Trash and Treasure Day: A Celebration of Sustainability

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I’m a newcomer to Ontario, and I have always been a collector at heart, not for the monetary value of items but for the stories they carry, their beauty, and also because I’m a poet and a nostalgic person. I recently stumbled upon the concept of Trash and Treasure Day, and I am thrilled to see what marvels residents have to offer.

 

If you, like me, are new in town or have never heard of this, you should read a little about this event and then go check out this outdoor super-sale! 

 

Trash and Treasure Day, a truly unique event, has been a staple in Vankleek Hill since 2000. Unlike your typical yard sale, it’s a community-wide gathering that brings together homeowners, church groups, and organizations from the region. This event is more than just a day of buying and selling; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the community, discover treasures, and contribute to sustainability.

 

The idea of reusing and buying second-hand items is highly appealing. Not only does it help reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices, but it also allows us to give new life to items with sentimental value. Recycling and repurposing goods is a responsible choice and a way to embrace a more environmentally conscious lifestyle.

 

The Vankleek Hill Business and Merchant Association spearheads this well-structured, community-driven initiative. Their goal is to make this day a memorable experience for all while extending its reach beyond our local community, drawing in visitors from neighbouring regions, and advocating for sustainability.

 

This massive yard sale offers a unique opportunity for locals to declutter their homes. The sale will start early on Saturday, June 1st, and continue through the day, rain or shine! If you look forward to joining as a vendor, contact the Vankleek Hill Business and Merchant Association for more information at [email protected]

 

In addition to being a source of entertainment and nostalgia, Trash and Treasure Day reminds us of the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling in our daily lives. Whether you are a seasoned collector or looking to find something special, mark your calendars for this sustainable and community-driven event. Join in the fun, discover unique finds, and contribute to a greener future for all.

 

Gratitude for Earth Parade, May show and Tree Giveaway Event in VKH

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Four years ago, young Charlie won a climate change contest in Vankleek Hill with a simple yet impactful proposal: plant ten trees. Today, at the age of 10, Charlie, with the help of his family, has turned this small initiative into a significant project. What started as ten trees has now grown to 120, and on May 19th, they will be giving away these trees at the Gratitude for Earth parade in Vankleek Hill.

The event will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at the Creating Centre. The corner will be adorned with stunning paper-mache puppets that will march along Main Street in Vankleek Hill. During the event, Charlie will have his own booth offering lemonade, and attendees can visit him and his friends to adopt a tree to take home. 

 

I had the pleasure of speaking with Susie Fairbrother, Charlie’s grandmother, who shared the inspiration behind this initiative. The project aims to encourage tree planting, combat deforestation, and fight climate change. Among the varieties available for adoption are silver maple, red spruce, red pine, and white pine.

During our conversation, I asked Susie what individuals can do to combat climate change starting at home. She provided some practical suggestions, including planting trees to keep the air clean, participating in community gardens, being mindful of composting and recycling, and opting for second-hand clothes to reduce waste and emissions.

What do we know about deforestation? 

 

Deforestation is the clearing, destruction, or removal of forests or trees from an area, typically to convert the land for agricultural or commercial use. It can have significant negative impacts on the environment, biodiversity, and climate.

 

 

 

 

 

Here are some key points about deforestation:

1. Environmental Impact: Deforestation can lead to loss of habitat for wildlife, disruption of ecosystems, and soil erosion. It can also contribute to climate change by releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

 

2. Biodiversity Loss: Forests are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. When forests are cleared, many species lose their habitat and can become endangered or extinct.

 

3. Climate Change: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change. When trees are cut down or burned, this stored carbon is released back into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

 

4. Water Cycle Disruption: Trees play a crucial role in regulating the water cycle by absorbing and releasing water through transpiration. Deforestation can disrupt this cycle, leading to changes in local weather patterns and potentially causing droughts or floods.

 

5. Indigenous Communities: Deforestation can also negatively impact indigenous communities who rely on forests for their livelihoods and cultural practices. Their land rights and way of life can be threatened by deforestation.

 

Efforts to combat deforestation include conservation initiatives, sustainable forestry practices, reforestation projects, and policies to protect forests and promote sustainable land use. It is important for individuals, governments, and businesses to work together to address the root causes of deforestation and protect our planet’s forests for future generations.

The Gratitude for Earth parade in Vankleek Hill will form part of the May show (10 am to 4 pm, Main Street VKH, Sunday, May 19th). Everyone is invited to dress up in fun nature-themed costumes, so join us for a fun family day with music, dance, delicious food, and arts and crafts from local artists. 

 

 

 

 

 

Support Susie, Charlie, and Mother Earth by taking a tree home and positively impacting our environment. Let’s come together to protect and preserve our planet for a greener and healthier future!

 

Follow Charlie and his environmental project here: 

https://www.facebook.com/CharliesTreesVKH

 

2024 Activities and Events

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Creating Centre de créativité is buzzing with exciting activities, lessons, workshops and events.

Nous vous souhaitons bienvenue au centre de créativité avec beaucoup d’activités, les leçons, les ateliers et les évènements.

The following activities are scheduled on a weekly basis starting in September.

Les prochaines activités sont en cours dés que le mois de Septembre. Veuillez nous contacter et on vous rappelle aussi tôt que possible,.  613. 678. 2627 [email protected]

Please contact us at Creating Centre for more details. Leave your name and phone number and subject of interest at 613. 678. 2627. Or write to us at [email protected] We will refer your call to the contact you request and they will get back to you shortly. Thanks so much for your interest.

Music with Alice. Piano, Guitar, Ukelele, La musique avec Alice

Art lessons and camps with Stephanie Pete – Art and Dream Studio –

Nathalie Frenière – Painting lessons for Adults  – Cours de peinture pour adultes

Bridge – Doreen Howes

VKH Fiddlers – Samme Putzel

Moms and Tots – Charlotte Winchester

Crafters – Tania Price

Free Café and Chat – VKH Foodbank

Overeaters Anonymous – Dorit Perlin

400 Rabbits – Fantasy Games – Fernando Réal

SEPTEMBER 2023 LESSONS AND ACTIVITIES

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The following activities are scheduled on a weekly basis starting in September.

Les prochaines activités sont en cours dés que le mois de Septembre. Veuillez nous contacter et on vous rappelle aussi tôt que possible,.  613. 678. 2627

Please contact us at Creating Centre for more details. Leave your name and phone number and subject of interest at 613. 678. 2627. We will refer your call to the contact you request and they will get back to you shortly. Thanks so much for your interest.

 

Music with Alice. Piano, Guitar, Ukelele, La musique avec Alice

Art lessons and camps with Stephanie Pete – Art and Dream Studio –

Nathalie Frenière – Painting lessons for Adults  – Cours de peinture pour adultes

Bridge – Doreen Howes

VKH Fiddlers – Samme Putzel

Moms and Tots – Charlotte Winchester

Crafters Group – Tania Price

Free Café and Chat – VKH Foodbank

Overeaters Anonymous – Dorit Perlin

 

Wee Irish Fest – Sunday, March 19, 2023. 1 – 4 p.m.

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We are celebrating the luck o’ the Irish.

Join us at Creating Centre. Venez nous rejoindre au Centre de créativité …une célébration de tous qui est Irlandais.

Dress in Green. Venez habillé en tous qui est vert. For dancing, music and laughter.

13hr – 16 hr –  11 High / Hwy 34, Vankleek Hill, ON.  Pour plus de renseignements:  613-678-2627. Nous vous rappellerons sous peu.