Debert gears up for annual festival

Debert Days will include everything from ceilidh dancing to strawberry shortcake treats

The popular Debert Days festival is coming back this year as a six-day extravaganza from Aug. 7 – 12 that will also feature paintball matches and an open jam evening.

Much is on offer for both children and adults, including a drama show by the Debert Junior Follies on Aug. 7, titled Cinderella, Cinderella, a bingo night at the local Legion, Aug. 8 and the main parade, Aug. 11, among other ac- tivities over six days.

Other activities include traditional Scottish Ceilidh games and a watermelon-eating contest on parade day, followed by a Saturday night dance.

Finally, the week will wrap up with a family church service at Colchester Community Park.

“It’s a fantastic community event that started way back in the 1970s and it’s something all the families look forward to; and actually, people who used to live here come back and make Debert Days part of their summer vacation,” said festival organizer Marie Benoit.

She was also excited about the Friday night outdoor jam session at Colchester Community Park.

“We’re hoping to have musical guests come up and sing and play and have people bring their lawn chairs to relax and enjoy,” said Benoit.

She said local residents appreciate the festival and efforts of those who work to make it happen.

Debert Days returned in 2016 after an eight-year hiatus.

For its first year back, 500 people attended. Last year, bad weather forced numbers down to only 150 people, but Benoit was hopeful for another strong turnout this summer.

“That makes me feel happy – that everyone else is happy about stuff happening here,” said Benoit.

For the full daily schedule, times and more information, visit the Debert Days 2018 Facebook page.

People can also call Marie Benoit at 902-956-1774 or email debertdays@gmail.com.