MALLAIG – Haying in the 30’s is a journey back in time, a reenactment of life in 1930s Alberta. It’s a celebration of history and heritage.
Organized by the Haying in the 30’s Cancer Support Society, the annual event will return to its usual site, located south of Mallaig over the Heritage Day long weekend, Aug. 5 and 6. This year also mark’s the event’s 25th anniversary.
Haying in the 30’s attracts thousands of visitors every year.
“It’s a live museum,” explained Lorne Buryn, president of Haying in the 30s. People will have the opportunity to witness live, in-person demonstrations showing how farming was done back in the 30s, along with exploring a variety of buildings that depict life in the early 1900s.
Haying in the 30’s gives visitors a taste of how an entire community looked and functioned in the past. There is a police station, a dentist office, bank, and more.
The event includes demonstrations of professions such as blacksmithing, and even exhibits depicting traditional ways of ice cream making. There will also be attractions such as horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, and food and drinks.
Buryn invites everyone to make the drive out. Admission is free. Food is free. Even camping is free.
“You can park your RV there free of charge for the weekend,” said Buryn. Everything is there for everyone to enjoy all weekend long. A donation centre is set up on site to receive donations from visitors. All funds raised go directly to cancer patients.
Saturday’s lineup of events will begin with opening ceremonies at 10 a.m., followed by a parade at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday both include a long list of events. A complete program is available at hayinginthe30s.com
And of course, “We can’t forget why we’re here,” adds Buryn.
Haying in the 30’s, founded in 1999 by Mallaig-area resident Edgar Corbiere, offers a one-time payment of $1,000 to those affected by cancer. Last year, the society helped around 450 people.
Donations can be small or large, said Buryn, explaining that the society does not ask for any specific amount to be given as a donation.
It is, “Whatever you can afford,” he added. “All we ask for is a donation.”
For more information about Haying in the 30’s, call 780-210-3030, or visit society’s website.
“We’re going to have a great weekend and we’re going to have a lot of fun,” concludes Buryn.
