From Canada Day concerts to after-school clubs, Tantramar’s recreation team aims to help make both Sackville and Dorchester feel part of the action this summer.
“We try to do as many events and programs as we can in both places,” says Jessica Wilson, the town’s event and recreation coordinator. “We just started doing after-school programs out here in Dorchester as well.”
While many municipal events take place in Sackville, efforts are growing to include Dorchester more consistently. Wilson says that helps residents feel seen, especially those with limited mobility or access to transportation.
A recent example came on July 1, when the town hosted separate Canada Day events in both communities. More than 300 people turned out in Sackville’s Bill Johnstone Memorial Park to hear Ray Legere and Frank Doody perform. Families enjoyed balloon twisting by Louis the Clown and snacks from the Rotary Club and Sackville Food Bank, with support from Shinerama’s student volunteers.
In Dorchester, country artist Ivan Daigle performed at the Veterans Community Centre. It was his first show in the village.
“It’s nice to bring something out here as well,” says Wilson. “To make sure that Dorchester feels like they’re included and that they matter to us.”
The town recently supported the Shiretown Festival and is now preparing for Dorchester’s Sandpiper Festival, set for Saturday, July 27.
Wilson says community involvement makes it all possible. “We would love to do something similar here in Dorchester if anybody wanted to help out.”
For more information, visit the Town of Tantramar Facebook page.
