Residents and visitors gathered at Alexandria’s Island Park on Labour Day, Monday, September 7, for the first-ever Alexandria Trail Fest, with visitors of all ages taking part in activities throughout the day. The event was organized by the Friends of Glengarry Trails Association, which is celebrating its 27th year.

The day was intended to introduce people to the local trail network, which includes approximately 15 kilometres of volunteer-maintained trails.

Activities at the park included Dameya Farms’ interactive petting zoo, mini putt by MiEV, and the Radical Run inflatable obstacle course. The Dunk Tank Challenge also saw incumbent North Glengarry Mayor Jamie MacDonald, councillors, and candidates in the upcoming municipal election take turns in the dunk tank.

The North Glengarry Fire Department. Photo: Philip Oddi.
Musician Ruvim Filippov provided tunes for visitors. Photo: Philip Oddi.
A calf from Dameya Farms’ interactive petting zoo. Photo: Philip Oddi.
A young resident, under the watchful eye of a local firefighter, attempted to hit a target using a firehouse. Photo: Philip Oddi.
The Radical Run inflatable obstacle course was one of the main attractions. Photo: Philip Oddi.
Mini putt was provided by MiEV. Photo: Philip Oddi.

Community members had the opportunity to explore emergency service vehicles and equipment on site and speak with members of the North Glengarry Fire Department. Children were also able to try their hand at using a firehose to hit a target under firefighters’ supervision.

The event was supported by a number of local businesses, including Chez Chad, which donated 480 ears of corn, and Mainville’s Your Independent Grocer, which provided beverages and other supplies.