Duane Hicks
The “Friends of the Fort Frances Museum” has begun planning another fun day for local families to enjoy winter activities.
“SnOasis 5: Canada Alive!”–named in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday–is set to take place Saturday, March 4 at the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre.
“‘SnOasis’ has previously taken place during March Break and Family Day, but we chose to meet somewhere in the middle with an earlier March date,” noted Friends’ acting president Sarah Marusyk.
“The hope is for lots of snow and tolerable temperatures,” she added.
“‘SnOasis’ is essentially a celebration of all things winter,” explained Marusyk.
“It’s an opportunity for the community to gather; for families to get outside and embrace the cold, the snow, the beauty of winter, and all it has to offer,” she enthused.
“The activities we organize are primarily for younger children but there’s a little something for everyone.”
Activities in the works this year include skiing and snowshoeing, maple taffy-making, “Storytime” yoga, bannock on a stick, a toonie swim, face-painting, various outdoor games, the Friends’ now-famous “Auger Dogs,” and more.
While the temperature and amount of snow has varied wildly from year-to-year, “SnOasis” has proven popular each time.
More than 200 children and adults turned out to enjoy the activities last year.
“Historically, ‘SnOasis’ has been a hit,” Marusyk said.
“As it’s entering its fifth year, it’s really nice to see how it’s grown but stayed true to the goal of having good old-fashioned winter fun,” she added.
“We’re hoping to draw even larger crowds this year as we celebrate ‘Canada 150.'”
“SnOasis” will be held in the parking lot of the Fort Frances Public Library Technology Centre, with some activities extending to the Memorial Sports Centre and Lions’ Park.
“We have partnerships confirmed with the Fort Frances Library and Friends, Rainy Lake Nordic Ski Club, Sunset Country Métis, and some fantastic individuals,” noted Marusyk.
Organizers also are hoping to have Canada-themed merchandise for sale at the event.
When it comes to community events, the more volunteers, the merrier. And “SnOasis 5” is no exception.
Anyone interested in helping out, including high school students in need of volunteer hours to graduate, can contact Marusyk at 276-4481 or via e-mail at sarahmarusyk@gmail.com
