Georgetown holds ‘special place’
Couple was married at same spot as Old Fashion Carnivals
The community of Georgetown has a special place in the hearts of Sheldon Opps and Marina Silva-Opps.
The couple, as well as their young son Elijah, were just a few of the many who took in the Old Fashion Carnival on West Street Beach Saturday.
With old fashioned games, bingo and a petting zoo, the carnival was one of numerous family-oriented events hosted during the Georgetown Summer Days Festival.
However, the day held some extra significance for the couple as the carnival was held in almost the exact location where they were married six years ago today.
“I love Georgetown. It has a special meaning for us, it’s just a really unique place,” said Sheldon. “It’s a real gem.”
While reminiscing about the celebration, Marina noted the wedding itself was unique because she is Catholic while Sheldon is Jewish.
“It’s hard to have that combination and find a priest,” said Marina, noting that a United Church minister and Georgetown resident performed the ceremony.
“It was really, very special for us.”
“It felt like the town was part of the wedding,” said Sheldon, noting that the experience ultimately influenced the couple to purchase a cottage at eastern P.E.I.’s Howe Bay.
Much of the town took part in celebrating the summer over this year’s five-day festival, which included a spooky “ghost walk” along the town’s historic streets, a home run derby and many more family-oriented activities.
One of the highlights at the carnival for many was an educational zoological display by Kensington-based Bunny Trails Pet Ranch.
Owner Tracy Brown spent the afternoon educating festival-goers on different critters and reptiles, including boa constrictors and a bearded dragon.
“The biggest thing is you get people over their f ear of snakes, a lot of people have never even touched one,” said Brown, who had a large crowd at her booth throughout the day of curious children looking to pet the animals.
Saturday also included a parade through the town, which saw large participation amongst community groups and members.
“It was pretty spectacular,” said participant Haley Zavo.
Zavo works at the Kings Playhouse, which was involved with the festival’s dance and also helped with the ghost walk.
“People really enjoyed the energy (of the parade),” said Zavo. “It’s really been a fun week of events for our town, the organizing committee has put a tremendous amount of work into it.”
The festival wrapped up with a concert and fireworks show on Sunday.