A Day of Festivity
This Nor’wester tradition is celebrated toward the beginning of the session. It’s the first all-camp event. After units have spent several days getting to know one another, Island Fair Day is an opportunity to connect with campers from across the island, engage in friendly competition, and shake up camp routine.
From the very beginning you could tell it was no ordinary day. Island Fair Day is marked by a special breakfast of cinnamon rolls, a berry medley, eggs, cereal, and yogurt. After enjoying this delicious meal together, campers broke off into groups focused on various preparatory tasks for the day. Some headed down to Mission Point to work on building booths for Carnival or put their engineering skills to the test to build milk carton boats. Others went to the Craft Shop to design and paint signs for the booths. Meanwhile in the Lodge, other camper groups were making tasty and innovative pies..
After a busy morning of preparations, the afternoon activities kicked off with the Island Fair Fun Run! Campers ran or walked the mile-long course in costumes, in groups, or in three-legged pairs. Some campers take it seriously such as the Mountaineer who crossed the finish line first. Unit mates waited at the finish line to cheer on all the participants. Afterward, everyone enjoyed a sweet treat of refreshing watermelon slices!
Then it was time to head down to the waterfront for the regatta which included canoe, kayak, and milk carton boat races. Everyone along the beach cheered for the paddlers and the intrepid milk carton boats. This year the traditional camper races were followed by a staff canoe/kayak race that was equal parts hilarious and impressive. Following the races, we all enjoyed some beach time together.
After dinner, the Island Fair fun continued with the announcement of the pie awards. Each unit got to sample their sweet creations. Next, the whole camp adjourned to Mission Point where booths of all kinds were set up for the Island Fair Carnival. Each unit developed a unique theme for their booth and advertised with bright signs and catchy slogans.
There was a photo booth, a mystery box guessing booth, the opportunity to “get married” (and hold a reception), aura reading, and a camp salon. Each camper takes turns manning their unit’s booth. When not on duty, they get a chance to experience all the carnival has to offer.
As the sun started to set, Island Fair Day came to a close. Campers took down the Carnival booths and swept Mission Point for any trash or lost and found. What a wonderful celebration! We look forward to seeing what else campers’ enthusiasm, creativity, and spirit brings this month.
