Holden Farmers Day

Emily Mailhot Reporter – Vegreville News Advertiser

Holden’s biggest annual event returned on June 8 with fun Farmers Day activities for everyone.

The day was kicked off with a pancake breakfast, followed by the parade and the opening of other events.

From noon onwards, the Holden Complex attracted visitors for children’s games and activities, the Farmer’s Day Market, Holden Multi Club 4-H Achievement Day, a concession, and more.

Throughout the village, businesses and organizations took part in the celebration, with a sale at the NU2U2 consignment store, a Fire Department Demonstration, Legion Hall Bar and Kubie Burgers. As well, the Holden Museum and The Gallery were open for visitors throughout the day.

Later in the afternoon, a free family movie was available at the Paragon Theatre. When evening rolled around, adult games such as darts and beer pong added a fun twist to the hall activities. A community supper, musical entertainment, and free hot dogs and pop kept the action rolling until a fireworks display ended the day with a bang.

Throughout the day, a Holden Passport with stamps for visiting different places and activities was available for everyone to eventually qualify for a door prize draw in their age bracket. Many of the draw items were donated by Busy Bee in Tofield.

Amber Kostyk, an organizer of the Farmers Day event, said that it was a community effort for families to come to have fun all throughout the day. “Lots of local organizations donated time, energy, and resources to put on the event, and each marketplace vendor paid a small fee to contribute to Farmers Day expenses so that we can pay off this year,” Kostyk said, “It’s really just about working together to create a great experience for families to enjoy themselves in our great community.”

Some of the sponsors and businesses involved were Nu2U The Gallery, the Fire Hall, the Holden Hall Association, Economic Development Committee, The Village of Holden office, Holden Agricultural Society. As well, the townwide train ride was donated, and a group in Ryley donated the inflatables.

Despite great turnout to the event in the past, things started out a little slower this year. “The weather is discouraging people a little because most of the activities are typically set up outside,” explained Kostyk. “But later in the day we still have a lot going on, so who knows?”

All funds went to pay for this year’s event so that Farmer’s Day can continue to be one of the most significant day for the Holden community annually.