Active Living and Retirement Show returns Feb. 24

FERGUS – The Active Living and Retirement Show will return this year in person to the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex on Feb. 24.

The annual event,  hosted by the Victoria Park Seniors Centre, will run from 10am to 2pm. 

“It’s a larger space which is why we use that facility for the event,” said seniors centre supervisor Kathy Morgan.

“Anyone is welcome to come. It’s all ages, free admission, no registration at all – you can just show up.”

Seminars will be offered throughout the day on various topics, including the county’s Ride Well transportation service, as well as wills and power of attorneys, frauds and scams, and a talk from the finance ministry.

“There’s various events happening throughout the day,” Morgan said. 

“There will be around 50 exhibitors offering senior support services, health and wellness, financial, volunteering, travel, recreation – anything of interest to senior citizens.”

Dance classes are regularly held at the seniors centre and include Tai chi, belly dancing, tap dancing and Zumba. Free demonstrations will be offered throughout the day at the Feb. 24 show. 

Sarah Gray, fitness instructor at the centre for the last seven years, said she will be demonstrating her Zumba gold toning class. 

“I teach a variety of fitness classes and encourage people to come to the show and actually try it out,” said Gray.

She told the Advertiser she loves teaching fitness classes “and I actually really enjoy working with the elderly.

“The senior centre has been one of my favourite places to teach.”

Free grab bags and refreshments will be available throughout the show, and there will be plenty of space and parking for all who attend. 

About the centre

Whether you’re a senior or a high school senior, the Victoria Park Seniors Centre welcomes anyone 18 or older to come be a part of its programs and events.  

Those aged 55 or older can become a member, with memberships available any time for $27 per year. Those under 55 are always welcome to join activities and programming, with fees varying from class to class. 

“We’re open [8:30am to 4:30pm] Monday to Friday,” said Morgan. 

“We used to offer Saturday events depending on the season, but things are only now coming back to our pre-COVID levels.”

The centre offers a wide array of programs, including fitness classes, billiards, bingo, and even a book club to name a few. While more people are returning in person, virtual sessions remain available. 

The Victoria Park Seniors Centre relies heavily on volunteers for daily activities and events, like the Active Living Retirement Show. 

To sign up or for more information visit centrewellington.ca.

Advertorial Writer