School is out. Summer is here. And the municipality of Tantramar has lots of activities planned for all ages.
While much of the programming, like the ever-popular summer trailblazers, will be familiar to residents, there is a new effort this year to reach more folks who live outside of Sackville, said Jesse Alder, summer program coordinator with the municipality.
“ We have started our Tantramar pop-up programs, where we’re bringing our programming around to different areas in the community that have less programming available.”
These full-day camps will be at three different locations – Dorchester on July 2; Rockport on July 30; and Mount Whatley on August 20.
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Programs for all ages
Throughout the summer, there will be free two-hour drop-off programs at Bill Johnstone Memorial Park, with different themes for different interests and ages, said Alder.
“ We are super excited to offer a lot of exciting programs and activities. I am very happy that we have something for all ages this summer.”
For children, these include multi-sports, preschool, trailblazers, around the world, crafty creations, and STEM squad. And for youth, there will be leaders in training, junior chef, game ready training, and junior lifeguards.
There are also two week-long camps, each costing $40 plus taxes— girl empowerment camp and drama and design camp. Though drama and design is currently full, people can sign up for the waitlist.
The equipment loan program is also back at Bill Johnstone Park, so from 8 am-8 pm, Monday-Saturday in July and August, folks can access an array of equipment, from basketballs to kids’ toys to outdoor games.
The municipality has plenty to offer adults to do as well, said Alder, like walks and hikes with the Tantramar Outdoor Club, groups for pickleball and ultimate frisbee and a seniors’ walking group.
There are also community activities like the Concerts in the Park series running every Thursday, chocolate bar bingo and Silver Lake Paddlefest.
Plenty of events on tap
The first big event of the year will be Canada Day, held in Sackville from 12-2 pm in the Bill Johnstone Memorial Park and in Dorchester from 4-6 pm, said Emma Doukas, Tantramar’s summer events intern.
“ There’s a 5K fun run and a 1K fun run for kids, both starting at 11 am. There’s going to be a barbecue hosted by Shinerama, cake, lawn games, live music, all the fun stuff.”
Dorchester will celebrate with live music, a barbecue, cake, and more.
On July 18, there is the Walker Road Trail run, open to kids and adults.
Then, from August 7-9, is this year’s Sandpiper Festival, said Doukas, who is looking forward to the street fair on Saturday from 12-3 pm.
“There is going to be lots happening like blow-up inflatables for obstacle courses, a petting zoo, a foam party, barbecue, face painting, live music. Everything you can imagine will pretty much be there.”
To wrap up the summer, there will be an End of Summer Bash at Bill Johnstone Memorial Park, with a barbecue, cold treats and a mega foam party that “kids will definitely love,” said Alder.
How to sign up
Anyone interested in registering for programs offered can head to Tantramar’s website to find the municipality’s Summer Activity Guide and Eventbrite page.
Folks can also keep up-to-date on events through the Tantramar Active Living and Culture Instagram and Facebook pages.
