The Ontario Winter Games are ready to begin. Opening ceremonies will be held outdoors at Ma-te-Way in Renfrew starting tomorrow (Thursday, February 2nd) at 6:30pm. The area will open at 5:30pm and those attending are reminded to dress for the weather as Environment Canada calls for cold and windy weather.
Events for the Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremonies will include an athletes parade, a land acknowledgement, traditional smudging and drumming. There will also be food trucks, a torch parade, cauldron lighting and fireworks display.
Melissa Bishop-Nriagu, the Games Ambassador and a three Olympian from Eganville will offer remarks along with Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, a number of elected officials and presenting partners.
Road Closures
Because of the ceremonies, Ma-te-Way Park Drive will be closed to the public starting at 4:00pm on Thursday (Feb. 2nd). Those attending are asked to enter using Dufferin Street and will be directed to public parking.
Joffrey and Haig Avenues will be closed at Ma-te-Way Park Drive. Area residents will be able to access their homes, but are asked to use Dufferin Street.
Walk or Take a Horse and Wagon Ride to the Opening Ceremony
It will be a 10-minute walk to the opening ceremony location on the ball field west of the Ma-te-Way Activity Centre or you can take a horse and wagon ride from the parking area.
There will be metal bleachers for spectators, but organizers say it might be wise to bring a blanket, cushion or folding chair to sit on if possible.
There will also be fire pits on site.
Second Opening Ceremony February 9th
A second opening ceremony will be held at Ma-te-Way Park on February 9th to kick off the second weekend of competition.
Volunteers are still needed for both weekends. If interested in getting involved, please visit renfrewcounty2023.ca/volunteer/ to register and choose your shifts.
Check out the action packed schedule of events for the first weekend of the Ontario Winter Games here.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)