“In the days prior there was a lot of discussion and analyzing contingency planning and logistics with all of the groups involved,” Perkins said. “An important focus through these contingency discussions was the importance of keeping this downtown outdoor event just that. The location of Street Fest is integral to the success of this community event and our local businesses.”
In the end, they kept the daytime activities in the community core and the weather worked out. There was some impact on the South Railway Street vendors, but there were still 26 who came out including some first timers. Perkins said they and the strong numbers for the town wide garage sales show people, both locals and visitors, can take weather possibilities in stride.
“There was a notable increase in the number of out of town visitors, including neighbouring communities, but also visitor traffic from the US that was passing through town on their travels who decided to stop in and check out the event. There was a couple from Ohio who saw the signage and canopies so decided to stop in briefly, and then ended up spending the entire day at Street Fest.”
The Lions Soapbox Derby was a success again, adding excitement to Cook Street. Lion Lorraine Houston said there were 34 competitors this year, down a little from 2024, but still a good showing. They plan to hold the races again next year. As they have done it a few years now, some of the kids who originally raced might be too old for the cars they built, and they would like to see them come out of storage. If anyone is willing to pass them on to some new young racers, they can contact anyone from the Lions Club.
Perkins said the Get Local Art Show is always a big part of the event, especially with the demonstrations on the street. This is particularly true in a community where art is such a big part of the culture.
The Kids Zone with the different activities went over well again, and the movie matinee was well attended. This year, something new was added. A Puppet Building Workshop and Community Puppet Show went over well. Perkins said it was organized by Alyson Doyle and student volunteers from Brandon University’s Introduction to Theatre Class.
“Alyson wrote a custom script for this year’s Street Fest performance,” Perkins explained. “Return of the Boissevain Turtle Derby had its premiere performance and was a retelling of the well-loved fable The Tortoise and the Hare. This incarnation integrated elements of local history of a few animal characters who meet on a comically reimagined version of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Blue Flea commuter train. The life-size puppets were a great display of art meets live theatre and it was well enjoyed by the crowd.”
There were plenty of highlights. The pie-eating contest was entertaining and competitive. The food options were well appreciated. Lyle Baldwin’s performance is always popular, and there were plenty of dancers on the street while he was playing. The community bingo brought plenty of people to the Community Centre.
All was well until the evening concert. Vintage Voltage was set to play the traditional street concert, but the weather was starting to deteriorate. Organizers made the decision to move it indoors to the Boissevain Legion. It might have impacted the numbers coming out, but Perkins felt they made the right call and the band’s performance was rated top-notch.
“Initial feedback from local businesses and community groups involved has been very positive and many individuals make a point to share with members of our planning group and myself how much the community looks forward to this event this year. Many are surprised to see how many different festivities are happening right here in a small rural community during Boissevain Street Fest.”
Perkins said they would soon be wrapping up the event and looking at 2026. As always, she gives a big thank you to all who work on Street Fest in any capacity. That is the key to making a major community gathering work.
“Boissevain Street Fest is a true community collaboration and it would not be the success it is without this tremendous collective support,” Perkins stated.
by PAUL RAYNER
Recorder staff