It’s a party that’s been a hundred years in the making.
North Bay’s Homecoming Festival is only three and a half weeks away.
Officials say the free ‘celebration of the century’ from Aug. 1-3 is bringing the community together to honour the rich history, vibrant culture and inspiring stories that have shaped North Bay over the past 100 years.
Highlights include live and local music and performances, historical exhibits and hands-on exploring, an artisan market, the mayor’s corn roast, family-friendly activities, games and demonstrations, an outdoor movie, and much more.
Events are taking place downtown, at the waterfront and at Lee Park.
Cathy Seguin, organizing committee member, says excitement is building.
“The community is embracing the fact that it’s affordable,” she says. “There’s no wristband pricing to this event and right now, economically, I think people are challenged at the best of times so not having those additional costs for the ‘big’ show means that it’s affordable for everyone to attend.”
Jean Jamieson, another organizing committee member, says they hope to create a legacy event.
“We need our festival back,” she says. “Our Heritage Festival in the day was just over the top. It was something we looked forward to all year and hopefully we’re going to get back to that.”
Shawn Devine is also on the committee.
He says the idea of creating a lasting event was part of the draw to get involved and volunteer.
“There’s a lot of people that are willing to put their energy into establishing something that will start this year and continue with the help and assistance of other volunteers,” says Devine. “Kind of a legacy piece is really where my involvement started.”
There will be free admission to the North Bay and Dionne Quints’ museums, a multi-faith service and kids’ fire fighter combat challenge, too.
The city says the festival provides an opportunity for lifelong locals, newcomers, visitors and others to reconnect, remember, and celebrate.
Further details will be announced on the festival’s website and social media channels.
