WinterFest was almost cancelled in Cochrane this year.
Bad economy resulting in low sponsorship was the reason organizers almost called off the whole event during the middle of January but after lengthy discussions and a new committee organizer stepping up, the committee made the decision to continue with the annual event.
“At the start, we weren’t sure if we would be able to put on an event with limited resources (but) we still had some sponsorship that came through and we thought it might not be the big event it was last year but we felt it was still important,” said Marina Chabbert, vice-president of Cochrane and Area Events Society.
Because of the delayed decision, organizers will be working extra hard in the next couple of weeks trying to finalize details, Chabbert said. Utilizing all the sponsorship they can, WinterFest activities will be adjusted to what is affordable. As of now, there will be a pancake breakfast, frozen maple syrup station on the pond, interactive family games, live entertainment, pony rides and art classes, all weather dependent – with more details to be released later in the month.
“I think the level of fun and activity will be great – it might be scaled back in the sense of sponsorship and different amount of activities we are able to provide but I think what we have and what we have on the board will be able to provide just as much fun,” Chabbert said.
With one of Cochrane’s biggest events during the winter just over two weeks away, organizers are still accepting sponsorship and currently seeking volunteers – “the more sponsorship, the more activities can be added.”
“If there is any way or means, if businesses can contact us, if they want to be a part of it and help us, that would certainly be greatly appreciated,” Chabbert said. “It is affordable and it is an opportunity for people to get out and enjoy the day… because of the down economy, a lot of people may be inhibited by their activities and holidays. So this is something to do.”
Cochrane WinterFest will be at Mitford Pond on Feb. 28 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. with no admission for kids and $5 admission for adults.
For more information go to cochraneevents.ca or to find out how to help email [email protected]
