Hot summer-like weather for The Friendly City’s Victoria Day celebrations

Tetchie, Joy and Jovy drew attention to the details as Sarah and Mayor Jerry Acchione modelled the latest looks for Woodstock’s 125 year milestone. (Ron Yuzark photo)

Ron Yuzark, Echo Correspondent

Woodstock residents embraced the spirit of summer as the city hosted its annual Victoria Day Weekend festivities from May 14 to 18. This year’s celebration blended long standing traditions with exciting new programming, culminating in a vibrant community gathering that filled Southside Park and the downtown core.

World’s Finest Shows kicked off the weekend on Thursday with its colourful Midway, offering rides, games and carnival treats that drew families back to the park day after day. The Midway’s presence created a festive atmosphere that carried through the entire long weekend, with visitors enjoying everything from classic Ferris wheel views to family friendly attractions.

Victoria Day Monday began with the 78th annual Victoria Day Parade, a Woodstock tradition that once again brought the community together. Crowds lined Dundas Street early in the morning to secure viewing spots as marching bands, local organizations, decorated floats, entertainers and specialty vehicles made their way from the Woodstock Fairgrounds to the parade’s finish at Henry and Finkle Street. Volunteers collected non perishable food donations along the route, helping support local families and reinforcing the community minded spirit of the event.

After the parade, residents flocked to Southside Park for the debut of Victoria Day Rewind, a new addition to the city’s 125th anniversary celebrations. The retro inspired afternoon offered a wide range of activities designed to spark nostalgia and encourage all ages participation. Attendees explored a classic car show, enjoyed a lively band tattoo, watched Medieval knight demonstrations, and took part in team games, lawn games and beach volleyball. Children delighted in the Teddy Bear Picnic, while roaming stilt walkers and a crowd pleasing magic show added to the festival atmosphere.

Limited edition Woodstock 125 merchandise and commemorative coins were available onsite, giving visitors a chance to mark the city’s milestone year with keepsakes.