Mattawa’s Voyageur Days wrapped up another weekend-long event this past Sunday night, and by all accounts, the festivities were enjoyed by all. Just over 2,500 tickets were sold, explained Renee Paquette, the town’s recreation manger, and attendees were treated to “an amazing show.”
For the most part, the weather co-operated for the fest. However, the heat and sun turned away for some time on Sunday night, when a storm came in and shut down the night’s entertainment. Practically Petty, on the bill for the tribute night, was cancelled because of the rain and lightning—it was too risky to have anyone near the stage—so fans missed out on that. But Abbamania came on around nine, and the much-anticipated laser show wowed the audience as well.
See: Voyageur Days returns this weekend, and Mattawa is ready to rock
This year, Annie’s Park on Main Street was used as an event venue throughout the weekend. The town is working to make the park more of a destination for residents, and this past weekend was “a great kickoff” to that, Paquette said.
The town fenced in the park, added some seating, raised flower beds, and a gazebo near the back, which is where bands played throughout each day, from lunch until around five. Food and beer vendors were in the park as well, and the site was a hit with the people, as it was often filled with eventgoers, enjoying some music, refreshments, and some much needed shade.
Downtown was busy with pedestrian traffic, as many were checking out the shops along Main, perusing the various vendors, or heading towards the next event. The BMX show on Timmins Street was a popular attraction, as the Krusher Stunt Team hit the ramps to deliver some gravity defying tricks.
Much work goes into planning the weekend event, and for Paquette and team, the work isn’t over yet. She’s putting together a detailed report about the weekend, including the financials, which she will present to council in the upcoming months. “We’re striving for a positive report,” Paquette said, “and we’ll figure out some ways to improve the festival” for next year.
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.
