LAC LA BICHE – A warm and sunny late summer evening and the natural scenery around Lac La Biche’s McArthur Park served as a backdrop to the 2025 edition of this year’s ‘Carnival in the Park’ event.
On Aug. 12, a large crowd gathered in the park for the evening of fun and games.
The all-ages event offered a free meal, mocktails, live music in the McArthur Park gazebo, face painting, along with glitter tattoos and balloon animals.
Youngsters were also given the opportunity to use a variety of washable paints to apply their artistic skills to a community peace officer truck parked nearby.
At about 7 p.m., a group of local kids who had been learning the art of circus craft throughout the week at Flyin’ Bob’s Circus Camp presented what they had learned with a live performance.
Once again, Calgary-based circus performer Bob Palmer, also known as ‘Flyin’ Bob,’ brought his circus camp to Lac La Biche for Carnival in the Park.
Participants of Bob’s camp were taught the ins and outs of circus performing, including stilt walking, juggling balls, bottles and rings, rola bola (also known as a balance board, or wobble board), and flower sticks, which involves manipulating one stick between one or two other sticks.
‘Carnival in the Park’ was organized by Lac La Biche County FCSS.
Young Families Program Supervisor with FCSS Amanda Cheyne said community events such as Carnival in the Park help foster social connections, provide opportunities for residents to come together, build relationships, and create a sense of belonging.
“The FCSS mandate is to provide locally driven, preventative social initiatives that enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and the community,” Cheyne said.
