VILNA – A drizzle fell briefly upon crowds gathered in Vilna threatening rain on Saturday, but the sky soon cleared up and colourful entries paraded through the main street during the Village of Vilna’s Boomtown Days on Aug. 20.
The village is in the midst of celebrating its centennial anniversary. The village was officially incorporated in 1923 and this year’s Boomtown Days held from Aug. 19 to 21 was also a celebration of the 100th anniversary.
Large crowds lined the village’s historic main street to watch the parade as the sounds of bells and sirens echoed. An abundance of candy rained down, much to the glee of spectators, who grabbed the candies they could, filling up their buckets.
The three-day event offered multiple activities and forms of entertainment including activities for kids like bouncy houses and face painting. Many food opportunities were also available throughout the weekend.
In addition to the Village of Vilna’s 100th anniversary, the Vilna and District Agricultural Society also celebrated its 50th anniversary since its formation on March 16, 1972.
Marion Vinette, treasurer of the Vilna Agricultural Society, said that it was great to be able to celebrate Boomtown Days again after the pandemic sidelined the annual event, and remarked how happy he was to see the events go well.
“We used to be a booming town,” he said. “We haven’t been able to do anything for the last two years and I hope everyone enjoyed themselves, and we look forward to seeing them again next year.”
Glenn Sadlowski was among those who attended the parade and said his daughter wanted to come to the celebrations, so he brought her with him from Ashmont.
“I haven’t been here in a long time, and it was good,” he said, as he held his daughter. “This is what this is about, it’s for the kids and the family.”
Nelson Chipiuk is from St. Paul, but also has a residence at Garner Lake and said the events at Boomtown Days had been great. Chipiuk said he visits Vilna every year to attend the festivities and is yet to miss one.
“It’s great that everybody participates in it, and they always get a good crowd,” said Chipiuk.
