Tag Archives: events

Journey Through Time: Highlights from the 26th Hawkesbury Car Show

Posted on by

The 26th edition of the Hawkesbury Car Show took place the weekend of August, and it was a sight to behold for all car enthusiasts and lovers of vintage automobiles. The event, which has become a beloved tradition in the community, transformed the main street of Hawkesbury into a vibrant showcase of classic cars from different eras. As I strolled down the street, classic cars adorned both the left and right sides, each a timeless symbol that has significantly impacted automotive history.

The antique cars on display were true marvels, each one meticulously maintained and sparkling in the sunlight like precious gemstones. From vehicles dating back to the early 1900s to cars from the glamorous 1940s and beyond, the show offered a journey through time for attendees, evoking a sense of nostalgia and appreciation.

The dedication of the car owners was admirable. They work tirelessly to keep their vehicles in mint condition despite the challenges of Canada’s harsh winters. The passion and care that go into preserving these collectible cars were evident in every detail, from the flawless paint jobs to the sparkling chrome accents that adorned each vehicle.

Organized by the Club d’autos Hawkesbury Auto Club, the 26th Hawkesbury Auto Expo was not just a celebration of classic cars, but a significant fundraiser for the Hawkesbury Central Food Bank. The impact of this event on the community, both in terms of the funds raised and the sense of togetherness it encouraged, cannot be overstated.

 

Check out these event photos that were taken for your enjoyment, and for more, visit the Hawkesbury Auto Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clubautohawkesbury

 

Vankleek Hill Fair: A Yearly Tradition of Fun for All

Posted on by

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

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

Posted on by

 

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

 

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

Posted on by

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