They skated. They played in the snow. They munched on hotdogs.
Most of all, they just came.
This year's Family Day celebrations on Feb. 15 is being considered a possible record turnout with scores and even hundreds of citizens coming out to enjoy near perfect unseasonal weather outside the Innisfail Arena. And if they were not outdoors they came indoors in huge numbers for a public swim at the Innisfail Aquatic Centre, where admittance was free of charge with a donation to the local food bank.
Behind the Arena, the public enthusiastically skated on the outdoor rink. Many formed a circle around the firepit and happily chatted about the day. Others decided to brave long lineups for a hayride, or hotdogs that were cooked up by the Innisfail Kinsmen Club.
“They (Kinsmen) said they had 40 dozen hotdogs and they sent out for another 10 dozen, so they are doing well at the hotdog stand,” said Mayor Brian Spiller.
The mayor said he attributed the splendid weather on Feb. 15 and the heavy advertising of the event as making a huge difference in this year's Family Day public turnout, which last year was small by comparison.
“It is very beautiful out today. It's good to see all the families. There is hardly a tuque in sight. It's just beautiful February weather for Canada,” said Spiller.
Al Brown, secretary of the local Kinsmen club, said the strong turnout makes the club's annual commitment to the event worthwhile.
“The Innisfail community is a big supporter of our club. We are here to show our appreciation for them,” said Brown.
And while many were out and about enjoying traditional winter activities, others, especially children, were thrilled to get a chance to poke around a fire truck that was brought in by Innisfail Fire Department pump operator Dan Urban.
“I think it is a tremendous year compared to what they had in the past. I think it is probably one of their biggest,” said Urban.
He speculated many citizens might have had more time this year to get outside to enjoy the day and its fine weather.
“Maybe more parents are home this year compared to other years. Maybe it's the economy that has a little bit to do with it,” said the firefighter. “But it is a great turnout for the Kinsmen. Everything is going well.”
Mayor Brian Spiller
"There is hardly a tuque in sight. It's just beautiful February weather for Canada."
