Pies will fly at Nipissing’s Fall Community Celebration

Nipissing Township is hosting its annual Fall Community Celebration this Saturday, September 14th. The weather forecast looks great – sunny and a warm 27 degrees – and everything is ready to go. Fire Chief Will Bateman sums it up well, noting, “we are trying to incorporate the museum, recreation and emergency / community services into one event for all ages.”

The event brings together vendors, a bake sale, and the ever-popular trunk sale – essentially a yard sale with the ‘yard’ being the trunk of one’s vehicle. Folks can also enjoy activities with Reptile Camp, have the kids’ face painted, and take in some balloon art with Ken the Balloon Dude.

See: Nipissing Township’s trunk sale returns

And as the Chief mentioned, there will be local first responders on site to meet with people and show off their vehicles. Nipissing Fire Department will be there, as will the OPP, Parry Sound EMS, North Bay Parry Sound Health Unit, East Parry Sound Community Support Services, and Emergency Management Ontario. Lest we forget, the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshall will be on site as well

“I think it’s important for people to know where the services are coming from, and who are providing what services.” noted Museum Manager Gillian Bernis, who has put much planning into the event. She noted “there are many service providers that are supporting us,” and this event provides opportunity to meet the people and learn more about the services.

Plus, kids of all ages love the trucks. Bernis and the township’s public works crew knows that all too well, so public works is also bringing in some heavy equipment to wow the little ones.

So, what about these flying pies, and pies hitting faces? Well, the township has come up with a unique fundraiser – people can enter a bid to throw a pie at a local dignitary’s face. That’s right, the mayor and much of council are all taking part, all auctioning off the chance to throw a pie at them.

“It’s all in good fun,” Bernis said, and all the money goes towards the museum. Plus, it’s not only council, but some other brave community members have also put their names – and face – on the auction block, all in the name of charity.

Although the museum has closed for the season, it will be open Saturday, and admission is by donation. However, the event is free, and all are welcome to attend. The day begins at 9 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. and takes place at Heritage Park at 14 Blake Street, in Nipissing Township. A stone’s throw from the museum.

Bernis mentioned that if there are any last-minute vendors interested in participating, they can reach out to the township at [email protected] or call 705-724-2144. Do so by Friday at 4:30. Also, volunteers are always welcome, so reach out if you care to help out.

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.