Among the many familiar activities that were interrupted by the pandemic was the popular annual Crescent Beach event, Alex Fest.
We have taken this two-year hiatus to re-imagine this late spring festival as a grassroots affair. On Saturday, May 28, the grounds of Camp Alexandra will host entertainment, crafting demonstrations, interactive community info tables, entertainment, food, kids’ activities and more.
“Reconnecting from the Heart” is the theme of Alex Fest 2022. For almost two years, many have felt isolation, loneliness, or simply disconnection, from vibrant community living.
This is an invitation to everyone in our community to help us co-create this festival, to share your skills and talents with neighbours, reconnect, and enjoy what a healthy, impactful community can look like.
Whether you make something with your hands, lead a local conservation group, are building a sustainable economy, or create music, poetry, or dance we invite you to consider applying to be a part of co-creating a truly interactive, grassroots festival focused on reconnecting from the heart.
One example of a group inspired to share at Alex Fest is the Reject Radio Roster, a local all-wheels team of skateboard, BMX, and scooter riders. Working with them and with a local sponsor, the team will provide a demonstration of their skills at the festival.
We want to work with community and neighbourhood groups like Reject Radio to bring what you’re doing to a wider audience.
If you or your group are interested in applying for an interactive information table, a crafting or skills demonstration, performing or presenting on our main stage or plaza stage, or simply volunteering to help manifest this happening, please contact me at communityprograms@alexhouse.net
If you would like to feature your business at Alex Fest, there will be vendor stalls available to rent. We will also be renting lot space for food trucks.
Please contact rentals@alexhouse.ca for more information.
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As we move into March, the thoughts of many turn towards the garden, and another season of growing fresh, inexpensive, organic, local produce.
But what if you don’t have the space? Or, perhaps you’ve thought about being part of a larger gardening community.
Applications to lease a plot in Alexandra or Crescent Park Community Gardens are open now until March 15. The gardens are located at Alex House in Crescent Beach, and at 128 Street and 25 Avenue near Crescent Park. To learn more and to apply, visit https://www.alexhouse.net/community-gardens
Neil Fernyhough is manager of Alexandra Neighbourhood House’s community programs. For information on programs/services at Camp Alexandra, call 604-535-0015 or go to www.alexhouse.net