This year's Lac La Biche Summer Days celebrations are right around the corner. The hallmark community event is back on from July 29-31 this year showcasing various musical performances, carnival rides, food vendors and a handful of new activities for families to enjoy.
For the youngsters, the annual Children’s Fish Derby is also back in action at Alexander Hamilton Trout Pond. On Sunday July 31 the Lac La Biche Ladies Muslim Association will be hosting the free event, said Hanna Taha, the association's vice-president.
It’s the first time the ladies have hosted the mini-derby.
“We’re really happy that we were approached because we like to participate in the community,” Taha said, which is a vital part of the association's efforts to support local events and have a presence. “If there are other ways that we can work with the community or other groups, we’re happy to do that and be a part of the community also.”
Anyone under the age of 16 can compete in the children’s derby. Taha says there will be lots of chances for prizes during the shoreline fishing event that will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Refreshments and snacks will also be on hand.
“It’s a real fun event for the kids to come out and throw their fishing rod in the water and see what they can catch. We’re going to have prizes for the kids and hopefully some ice cream and refreshments—we’re hoping it will be a nice day.”
Register with adult
Participants are expected to register at the start of the morning and have their own fishing gear. All children and youth must have an adult accompanying them throughout the event.
“Everybody has to bring their own fishing rod. You come out and register, one parent should also come so that they can help supervise their kids while fishing off the shoreline or the dock. For the winners, there will be medals, door prizes given out…it will be a fun day for the kids to enjoy.”
First-timers welcome
The outdoor fishing event she adds is a great way to get everyone involved because not only do you not need a boat to participate but it’s a great opportunity for kids who've never fished to try and make a catch during the newer Summer Days addition.
“The fish derby has always been a part of the event and they’ve added the Children’s Fish Derby the last few years. I think it’s really nice for the kids to get an opportunity to get out there and fish. For some of them it might be their first time, so when you feel that first tug from a catch, it's pretty exciting,” said Taha, adding that it’s also a very exciting opportunity for the association’s members.
“The ladies are really looking forward to it …we are happy to be approached and to take on this event,” she said.
The Summer Days celebration, which began in 1962 with the Lac La Biche Pow Wow Days and Fish Derby Association, will be celebrating its 60-year anniversary this summer.
