By Sheila Phibbs
The Haldimand Press
JARVIS—The third weekend of August will be filled with fun and entertainment for all ages as the inaugural JarvisFest kicks off on August 19, 2022.
From opening day through to August 21, the Jarvis Lions Park and community centre will be the site of live music and performances, a children’s midway, slo-pitch and disc golf tournaments, fireworks, and, of course, food for every tastebud. Main stage performers include Tuxedo Bluegrass Boys, Felicia McMinn, 50 Mission (tribute to the Tragically Hip), The Regulars, Jeremy Snowden, Triple Chance, and Mark LaForme.
“Part of our objective is to support local entertainment,” says JarvisFest Committee Chairman Richard Moorse. “They are good and well worth hearing.”
Other entertainment includes the Lucas Wilson Magic Show and Princess Show and Meet.
For those looking to get active or watch a game, a 10-team slo-pitch tournament organized by Jarvis Minor Ball will run throughout the weekend and a Sunday afternoon disc golf tournament will showcase the newly installed course. Spots are still available for two-person disc golf teams.
Food will be a prominent feature at JarvisFest with rib trucks and other festival food favourites on the menu. Sunday morning features a pancake breakfast in the community centre catered by Maureen Devine (formerly of Devine’s Family Restaurant).
Those who attend opening night can take in the giant fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. and the first 2,500 people who visit on Saturday will receive a free tote bag from Simplicity Air. Moorse says, “No festival such as JarvisFest can happen unless there is substantial support from the businesses in the area. Local businesses have been very supportive both financially and in kind…. This is most encouraging.”
Moorse is also encouraged by the support from the community since JarvisFest was first announced and the number of volunteers who are helping over the course of the weekend, including members of the Hagersville Secondary School Student Crime Stoppers, the Jarvis and Fisherville Lions Clubs, and the community at large.
He says, “Volunteers are an integral part of the success of any event. We have had a number of people come forward to offer their time. Thank you to all those who have volunteered to help. I believe I share with them that we are optimistic for the success of JarvisFest. Volunteers are always most welcome.”
Admission to JarvisFest is free, but donations are welcome and special buttons will be sold at the park entrances. Event organizers are excited to welcome visitors to come and enjoy the strong community spirit for which Jarvis is known.
Moorse shares that helping to organize this event is a way for him to give back to his community. He says, “Personally, as clergy, I want people to know that the church participates in the community, helping out where it can. I am so looking forward to seeing the residents and visitors enjoying the weekend, enjoying the town, and appreciating the park and its amenities.”
To volunteer for JarvisFest or sign up for disc golf email jarvisfest@gmail.com. For more info, visit jarvisfest.ca, or check out this week’s paper copy of The Haldimand Press for a full schedule of events.
