ASSINIBOIA — Often written about, the variety of activities hosted in Assiniboia is remarkable. Not only is a full slate of festive fun anticipated by residents, but out-of-towners enjoy travelling to this heart of the Golden South to take part in the fun.
A pop-up poll on Facebook asked residents what they are planning to attend in December in the community. The poll closed Dec. 9 after 10 days, with 101 people responding.
The highest percentage received for votes for these holiday events was 18 per cent of respondents said they were taking in the annual twinkle tour.
While Festival of Trees scored a surprisingly low six per cent of the votes, residents say it is because people that have pre-purchased their tickets for the coveted event consider it a done deal already, not something they will casually take in.
The Kinette’s Breakfast with Santa garnered seven per cent of the votes, however, attendance says there were many more participants than what was indicated in this seasonal poll.
Holiday movies at the theatre were another option, Shurniak Gallery open house, Junior and Senior Rebel games at Southland Co-op Centre, as was Advent and/or Christmas Eve services at local churches.
Brand new in the December calendar this year was the Rotary Club’s Santa Escape Room and it sat at 11 per cent of the votes but there were also several resounding positive reviews on the experience of those who attended.
One comment about this new holiday-themed escape room read, “We did the escape room last night. A huge shout out to the Rotary Club of Assiniboia for all of the work that went into putting on this event and to Iris and Therin for hosting. It was well worth the $20 and proved to be a fun-filled, hectic, laughter-filled, stressful/not stressful evening out. It is a definite “don’t miss this event”
Twinkle Lane captured 12 per cent of the votes, while Christmas Scavenger Hunt and Christmas shopping at local business were also part of the pop-up poll, all garnering votes.
Regardless of votes cast and events chosen, residents agree that Assiniboia continues to be full of festive fun, thanks to the continued commitment of event organizers and volunteers who host these events for the enjoyment of their community.
As one private message told this reporter, “It’s like a month-long gift from the town and those who put on events that everyone gets to enjoy, regardless of budget. Kudos to everyone involved.”
