It’s Official, HarbourFest is Open

HarbourFest 2016 was officially opened this evening with a brief ceremony at Eaton Park in Pugwash. Festival organizers presented officials from all levels of government and gave each a chance to speak.

HarbourFest Chair, Wally Vaters recognized the help of government to ensure the waterfront celebration's success in its eleventh year.

Bill Casey, the Member of Parliament for the area was first to bring greetings on behalf of the federal government. Like the other speakers, Casey acknowledged a small financial pledge to the event.

Terry Farrell, the MLA for Cumberland North spoke for the provincial government, while Keith Hunter did likewise as Warden of Cumberland County. 

In his remarks as the local county councillor, Allison Gillis noted the Warden had a problem with Pugwash Harbour. He wants to bring his boat to HarbourFest but there is no place to park. Alluding to the plans for a new waterfront development, Gillis said, "We hope to rectify that."

Christie Blackie, the new Chair of the Pugwash Village Commission received a warm applause as she welcomed all to Pugwash and the annual waterfront festival.

The major sponsors of the event were thanked, and a great deal of praise was given to the many volunteers who work for months ahead of time to ensure its success.

The dignitaries, and all who were on-hand at the park, were then invited to a reception at the Lobster Factory. It was a quiet kick-off for a rousing event that will fill the next two days in and around Pugwash Harbour.