From skating to crafts, ice games and more, Wintertainment offered residents a chance to get active in the community last week over the February break. (battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

North Battleford activities

Wintertainment receives positive response in community

Feb 22, 2021 | 3:21 PM

Wintertainment was held all last week with a number of community activities taking place from Monday to Saturday in the City of North Battleford.

While the week started off very frigid, with temperatures dipping as low as -24°C, things progressed to a daytime high of -4°C by the final few days.

Director of Parks and Recreation, Cheryl DeNeire said community involvement only continued to grow as the temperature warmed later in the week, just in time for some of the more outdoor-based activities.

“I think the weather had an impact on people committing early on because it was so, so cold that really a lot of it was wait and see,” she said. “By Thursday, it was pretty nice out though, and that was our first real large day of outdoor activities, so that was really good to see.”

Due to COVID-19 guidelines, the city was unable to host some of the larger group activities that they otherwise might have during the week.

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However, with new events such as glow skating, a hike through Finlayson Island and tobogganing contest, DeNeire said the response from the community seemed to be a very positive one this year.

“I know many people who came out had mentioned that they really enjoyed some of the newer activities this year that were brought in in response to the COVID-19 restrictions,” she said.

“Many of the activities were designed to be either self-guided or in small family groups to meet the requirements, and (we were) just thinking of different fun things we could do outdoors that didn’t include large gatherings,” she added.

Local, Amy Hoiseth was among those very pleased with the year’s event. She said her kids really enjoyed their time getting out and about for the activities, both outdoors and inside throughout the week.

“The toboggan race was awesome as all the kids made such great toboggans,” Hoiseth said. “The animal suncatchers [craft] was a great activity too, so a big thanks to everyone who made it possible.”

The official number of Wintertainment attendance has not yet been calculated, but curator/manager of galleries with the city, Leah Garven said just being able to provide some activities for residents to get out and enjoy, especially this year, is what it’s all about.

“I think people just needed to get out, and once the weather eased up a little, it was great to see them coming out to enjoy themselves,” she said. “We’re just really grateful for all the people coming out to support the events and look forward to doing it again next year.”

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1