KAWARTHA LAKES-Old Mill Park was full of music, food, and community spirit on Sunday, October 18 as the Rotary Club of Lindsay hosted its very first Rotary Fest.
The free festival brought together 30 vendors, cultural performances, interactive workshops, and a silent auction. Guests enjoyed the beautiful sounds of the Oshkiigmong Singers and hand drummers, the vibrant energy of Salsa Caleña, and a Zumba session led by Ryan from She Shed Fitness. Kawartha Lakes Bus Lines brought out a big bus for everyone to paint, and Kawartha Lakes Paramedics stayed throughout the day to help keep everyone safe. Thanks to support from RBC, guests also had access to free workshops.
Rotary Fest is meant to be a celebration of what happens when a community comes together. Participants spent the day exploring interactive workshops, demonstrations, live entertainment, and hands-on experiences designed to connect people of all ages.
It was a chance to meet local service clubs and community organizations that are creating opportunities to volunteer, learn new skills, improve mental wellbeing, and build meaningful relationships according to Rotary officials.
The festival welcomed Rotary District Governor Drew Markham and Janet Markham, Mayor Doug Elmslie, MP Jamie Schmale, AG Dave Woodcroft from Minden, and AG Sue Sharp from Peterborough, along with families and neighbours from across the region.
“Things don’t always go according to plan. Plans change, unexpected challenges pop up, and you have to figure things out on the fly,” said Rizzan Delos Santos, President of the Rotary Club of Lindsay. “But watching our Rotarians step in, adapt, take on different roles, and keep going reminded me what service and teamwork really look like. We may have organized the event, but it was our people and our community who brought it to life.”
Delos Santos thanked RBC and all the vendors, performers, volunteers, and community partners who helped make the day possible.
“This was more than a festival,” she said. “It was a reminder of what happens when people come together with a shared purpose. Thank you, Lindsay, for showing up. This is only the beginning!”
To learn more about the Rotary Club of Lindsay or get involved, contact Rizzan Delos Santos at [email protected].
