By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Preparations are underway for this year’s Friendship Day in Lennoxville June 8, promising a day filled with fun activities and community spirit. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with fireworks starting at dusk at Bishop’s University.
Mandy Osborne, a longstanding committee member, shared the details with The Record in a recent interview. The Record also spoke with three other organizers on their individual Friendship Day events.
“We’ve got the Euro Bungee and inflatables returning, and new this year, we have a petting zoo from D & P’s Run Away Farm,” Mandy revealed, “the previous providers are no longer available, so we’re excited about this new addition.”
Along with the petting zoo, the event will feature live music from two artists, performing at Square Queen and Centennial Park.
“We have the artisans, the hands-on activities, the curling club, the art festival upstairs at the old fire hall, and the book sale outside the fire hall,” Mandy detailed.
The event will also host a farmer’s market, and a bake sale by Lennoxville Elementary School accompanied by an online auction to raise funds for its Parent Participation Organization (PPO). Food trucks, including the popular Danny’s POP Kettlecorn and StreEATacos, will cater to attendees’ cravings.
A highlight of the day will be the evening fireworks display, weather permitting.
“We are closely monitoring the weather, especially for the inflatables and the fireworks,” Osborne said.
“The petting zoo has tents to protect the animals from rain or sun, so it should remain operational regardless of the weather.”
She also noted that construction on Bishop’s’ campus might affect traffic flow.
“There are specific entry and exit points due to construction, so we’re encouraging people to walk if possible. Security will be on-site to help direct traffic.”
Part of Hunting Street and Speid Street, up to the Centennial Park kiosk, will be closed from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Samuel-Gratham Street will be closed for the farmer’s market and book sale.
Osborne expressed the committee’s need for volunteers, highlighting the importance of community involvement.
“Many hands make light work,” she said, “we already have a few volunteers, but more are always welcome.”
Reflecting on the significance of this year’s event, Mandy mentioned, “This is our 31st edition of Friendship Day. It’s a big milestone, and we’re hoping for good weather. Historically, we’ve managed to go ahead rain or shine, so fingers crossed for a sunny day.”
For more information: https://www.facebook.com/lennoxvillefriendshipday
