Old Ottawa East residents celebrated their community at the annual Main Event, held this year on Sat., June 16. It was the community party of the year and a wonderful way to kick-off the summer.
The festivities, organized by the Community Activities Group, actually began on Friday with a free movie night in Springhurst Park. About 200 people enjoyed a beautiful evening and watched the movie adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax. The night was organized and sponsored by the Sandy Hill Community Health Centre.
On Saturday morning, the streets of Old Ottawa East became a destination for bargain hunters, treasurer seekers, and the merely curious as the Main Event Garage Sale took place from 8 a.m. to noon.
The Stan Clark Orchestra entertains the crowds with swing music. PHOTO BY LAURA BAKER
Few could resist the Latin beats while Samba Ottawa performed. PHOTO BY LAURA BAKER
At 10 a.m., the front lawns of Saint Paul University were transformed into a hub of activity. Live music by the Stan Clark Orchestra and Samba Ottawa filled the air. There were line-ups for the bouncy castle and obstacle course. Children were delighted with the talents of Sue McKee from Let’s Talk Science, Mrs. Create from KidsCreate, and Brad, the balloon twister from Elliott Smith Magician.
Back by popular demand was the horse-drawn wagon ride that wound through the streets of Old Ottawa East.
The wagon ride, an annual tradition at the Main Event, leaves the parking lot for a trip down Main Street. PHOTO BY LAURA BAKER
The proceedings also featured local craftspeople and of course, the Main Farmer’s Market, found every Saturday morning in the university parking lot.
Another popular attraction was the Political BBQ, organized by Old Ottawa East Community Association (OECA) board members Nick Masciantonio and Jamie Brougham with support from over a dozen community volunteers and board members and a group from Celebration! Church.
They raised approximately $850 to support the OECA. Politicians who took their turn behind the grill included Ottawa City Coun. David Chenushenko, MPP Yasir Naqvi, Ottawa-Carleton District School Board trustee Rob Campbell and Ottawa Catholic School Board trustee Kathy Ablett.
The “Political BBQ” organized by the OECA is another popular destination. PHOTO BY LAURA BAKER
None of this would have been possible without the hard-work and dedication of the many volunteers or the Old Ottawa East residents and businesses that showed their community spirit and support.
The success of the weekend points to the fantastic community that Old Ottawa East residents call their own. CAG looks forward to another fun-filled Main Event next year.
The perfect shady spot for a picnic at the Main Event. PHOTO BY LAURA BAKER
