Cranberry Day is one of Callander’s flagship events, and it’s coming back this Saturday, September 30th. The weather looks like it will help celebrations along, as the highs are set to reach 22 degrees with plenty of sun to boot. To make the day even brighter, admission is free.
“It’s always a great time,” Mayor Robb Noon said of the event, “and we always have a really great turnout.” He mentioned they are still looking for some volunteers, so anyone who loves helping at an outdoor event is encouraged to reach out to Town Hall at 705-752-1410 or send an email to [email protected].
The day begins at 10 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. at the Cranberry Trail in Callander, which is down Cranberry Road off Pinewood Park Drive. Parking can get tight near the trail, so the town is offering a free shuttle bus from Centennial Park. Shuttles will leave from the park and the trail about every 20 minutes.
The last bus of the day leaves the trail at 3:30, so don’t be left behind, or you’ll be wishing you left your own cranberry trail leading back to your ride.
Callander’s Cranberry Trail leads to the Cranberry Marsh, an area about 319 hectares located along the northwest shore of Callander Bay. The trail was opened in the fall of 2007 and since opening has become a very popular destination for the walking set.
But first timers should know the trail is about 2.5 kilometers. You might want to dust off your walking cane and wear some comfortable footwear. If you plan on harvesting some of those precious berries, some rubber boots would come in handy, as would a container to store your crimson bounty.
Along the trail there are children’s activities, live music, food (some will be cranberry themed, of course) and other vendors, so have some cash on hand for treats and crafts. Last year the Callander Library and the Museum had some booths set up, as did the North Bay Mattawa Conservation Authority, so one never knows who may show up for Cranberry Day.
A lost and found station will be on site, and Callander’s Volunteer Firefighters will be setting up a first aid station. The station will also be “where lost children will be kept until a parent arrives,” organizers noted. So, kids, if you go astray in your quest for the tartest berry, look for a firefighter. With their help and expertise, odds are high you’ll be reunited with your family so you can continue your cranberry day together again.
David Briggs is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of BayToday, a publication of Village Media. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
