The stage is set for Saturday, when Front Street will be transformed into a massive backyard neighbourhood, welcoming students and all Thorold residents to a free barbecue and family-friendly activities.
All are welcome to the first annual Student and Community Welcome event, which kicks off with games, inflatables and fun at 11 a.m., followed by a free barbecue at noon (while supplies last), organized by Youth Unlimited.
Picnic tables will be set out along the street, and free pizza slices will be available at Papa Vince Pizzeria.
Thorold Fish and Chips will dish out free shawarma samples, along with $5 poutine (cash sales only).
Da Bomb Bath Bakery will scoop out free ice cream for visitors throughout the day.
Popcorn, snow cones, and water will also be handed out free of charge.
At 11 a.m., The Yoga Centre of Niagara will host a free outdoor yoga class, as part of the Downtown BIA’s attempt to showcase local businesses, both to students as well as to other Thorold residents.
Spearheaded by the BIA, several other community partners are participating, including the City of Thorold, Thorold Town & Gown committee, OneThorold, Niagara River Lions, Brock University, BUSU, Thorold Tourism, Thorold Lions Club, Youth Unlimited, Thorold Public Library, and the Thorold Community Activities Group.
According to BIA marketing committee chair Diana D’Intino, “We hope to see everyone come on out to show the new students to Thorold how welcoming we are as a city, and all the things that can be accomplished in our historic downtown.”
Everyone’s invited to take a free Zumba, self-defence, or pickleball class, courtesy of the TCAG in the downtown setting, and the TAAA will be sponsoring a dunk tank at 12:30.
Live music by Leather & Lace will be performed by the Rock & Roll Hair Studio from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., with a deejay spinning songs throughout the day.
Bocce will break out in the alley beside Biscotti Café, A Yellow Flower Basket will host a hula hoop challenge, and basketball fans can meet Niagara River Lions players at the team’s three-on-three event.
The Thorold Library will also be offering giveaways and games throughout the day.
The Red Door will provide a free gift with purchase; and special deals will be featured at Cosmo’s Diner, and John’s Meat Shop at 28 Pine Street South.
Shoppers can select from Angie’s “magic jar” at Angie OH’s antiques, for 10 to 30 per cent discounts.
Also this Saturday, Sept. 14 from noon to 3 p.m., Thorold resident Darryl Forten is hosting his annual charity coat drive in the TCAG parking lot, at 131 Richmond St. Thoroldites can give back by cleaning out their closets to help those in need.
For updates in the schedule, follow the BIA Facebook event page.
