Legion Market marks start of summer fun at Branch 29

Volunteers and patrons gather under the barbecue tent during the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29’s biannual market on June 13. Pictured are (from left) Barry Humphrey, Bonnie, Gloria Stewart (seated), Darlene Murphy and Branden Chen. The market featured local vendors, raffles and a fundraising barbecue, with proceeds supporting Legion programs and operations. 

Rubyyy Jones

Cultural Correspondent 

Summer in Paris means the return of community gatherings, outdoor events and opportunities to connect with neighbours. At the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29, that tradition continued June 13 as residents turned out for the Legion’s biannual market, one of many events the branch is hosting this season.

This past weekend featured a glorious Saturday, perfect for the event which featured vendors both inside the building and on the perimeter under tents. Vendors offered a range of goods: local artists, handmade items, small businesses, and tasty treats too. Inside the Legion there was an enormous prize table for the raffle and 50/50 draws, along with the vendors and seating for folks wanting to escape the sun. There were so many volunteers who made this market possible, it was great to see volunteers of all ages too!

Out on the patio, the fundraising barbecue stayed busy throughout the day, serving up the usual hamburgers, hot dogs and fries, along with a new addition to the menu — jalapeño sausages. 

They were said to have a “real kick,” though this reporter chose not to put that claim to the test. These BBQs run every Saturday at the Legion from 12 pm to 4 pm and all funds go to supporting Legion 29 and its operations. 

The Paris Legion has a few more exciting things coming up this month, starting on June 17 with an outdoor concert featuring the Ayr-Paris Band. This free community event begins at 7:30 pm. 

On Father’s Day they’ll have their standard Saturday BBQ, with the an extra special addition to the menu: pulled pork with coleslaw and potato. Enjoy that special Father’s Day feast with music on the patio.

Pourly Done Trivia is back on Friday June 26th at 7 pm, offering pints, points and quips. On Saturday June 27th, for the first time ever, there will be a Pride event featuring Big Cityyy Arts’ Drag Bingo and local Drag performers, this event will be ticketed, tacky and truly outrageous. 

If you’ve never stopped by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29, this summer might be the perfect time. The branch welcomes everyone, not just veterans, and is always looking for volunteers. With a busy calendar of events, many of them free, and a fantastic patio to enjoy during the warmer months, there’s never been a better time to check it out. Find out more at https://parislegion29.ca/