Since November, members of the Mapleton Youth Action Council (MYAC), under the guidance of Mapleton economic development coordinator Martin Bohl, have been busy planning a Canada Day event during the township’s celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday.
Chalkfest will be the first of its kind in Mapleton and the very first event held during the day-long celebrations on July 1.
“Hosted by the youth, the Chalkfest is a creative, colourful way to celebrate Canada. Everyone relates to art and everyone will be able to see the finished product,” said MYAC member Alexis Kuper.
MYAC’s vision for the July 1 celebration is to transform downtown Mapleton into a celebration of Canadian culture with a rural twist.
“It’s also an opportunity for local businesses and residents to connect, creating a sense of community,” said MYAC member Bre Frey.
The youths are looking for participants of all ages and skill levels to showcase their artistic skills on the sidewalks of downtown Drayton on July 1 from 2 to 4pm. Chalk will be provided along with drizzle sheets in case of rain.
Participants are asked to make a donation to a local charity the day of the event. Donation buckets will be placed on the registration table located at the lights in downtown Drayton.
Advance registration is appreciated by the organizers. Any remaining spaces will be available on a first-come, first-served basis the day of the event.
Artwork will be divided into age groups for judging and winners will be announced following the Chalkfest.
Members of the MYAC will be sporting their new logo on orange T-shirts at the event so they can be easily spotted by anyone requiring assistance.
Mapleton businesses or individuals interested in sponsoring sidewalk space are invited to contribute funds, prizes, a theme for the art work or to volunteer their time as judges.
“The support from the community has been overwhelming,” said Tate Driscoll of MYAC. “We appreciate everyone’s help. To date prizes include Canada 150 gift baskets, theatre tickets and gift cards.”
MYAC is also looking for residents of the township to volunteer at the event. Various positions need to be filled to make Chalkfest a success.
With the parade beginning at 4pm from the Drayton Freshmart and Edge Mutual parking lots and winding its way downtown and ending at the Drayton Fairgrounds, there is plenty of time for residents to check out the artistic skills of Mapleton residents in the downtown core.
Everyone is encouraged to form a team and challenge friends, neighbours, co-workers, a club, congregation or youth group to try creating art.
A theme celebrating Canada’s 150th birthday, or “what living in Mapleton means to you,” are other ideas suggested by the group. Creativity has no limits in this type of event, they stress.
To register or for more information on Chalkfest call Martin Bohl at Mapleton Township 519-638-3313 extension 26 or email myac@mapleton.ca. Registrants are asked to include their name, age and contact information.
