While the cold and rainy weather forced it indoors, the Glendon Pyrogy Festival was still a smashing success this past weekend.
“I would say it was a record-breaking turnout” said Mayor Laura Papirny, adding that over 500 people came to the event, more than they had ever seen. The cold conditions might have worked out for the better anyhow. Although phase 1 of the new Pyrogy Park had been finished before the festival, the sod had just been laid that week and so wasn’t quite ready for traffic. The second phase is scheduled for the spring.
Also included in the celebrations was the digging up of a time capsule made for the first ever festival 25 years ago. Treasures found inside include some original pyrogy t-shirts and souvenirs, correspondence and pictures. Several VHS tapes were in the vault as well. However, the past 25 years have not been to kind to them, and the village is hoping to salvage and digitize them as best as they can.
The long running hallmarks of the festival were present as well, including the pyrogy eating contest and the United Church’s pie sale. MLA Scott Cyr and former Mayor John Daneyko (who was part of getting the pyrogy built) provided speeches and a local Ukrainian dance group provided entertainment.
The village is considering creating a new time capsule to open in 25 years time. They’re open to suggestions and can reached at (780) 635-3807.