The kick-off to Barrie’s summer festival season happened today at Centennial Park as residents looked to Celebrate Barrie for fun.
Celebrate Barrie is a sure sign that summer is here, as it is notably the first event of many from the city to get people out and enjoying the warm weather.
Heritage Village, with re-enactments and demonstrations, kept people busy and the folks from Medieval Swordplay Canada were ready to put on a show as they do every year.
Kieron Rowe has been with the medieval group for approximately nine years and says they look forward to Celebrate Barrie every year, especially after the popular TV show Game of Thrones had such huge viewership.
“This is a big event for us, as it is a great way to get out into the community and show everybody what we do,” said Rowe. “We have a about 30 steady members, and the popularity of Game of Thrones certainly didn’t hurt, but we’ve never really hurt for members.
"I think it’s because swinging a sword is a neat way to get some exercise," Rowe added.
The weather during the day was perfect for inflatables, games, a rock-climbing wall, live music and tons of food for everyone who stopped by Centennial Park between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Shortly after 6 p.m., Saturday, festival officials announced that tonight's movie has been cancelled due to weather. The rain date is June 8.
