Wild West Daze is fun for everyone!
By Joan Janzen
The annual Wild West Daze weekend was once again a highlight in 2023 for residents of Leader and surrounding area. Wild West Daze took place this year thanks to the hard work of a dedicated committee of eight individuals. Any events that were not put on by an outside organization were organized by this committee. This included the ball tournament, dance, beer gardens, set up, take down, kids activities and more.
The parade on Saturday was a highlight of the weekend, attracting a large number of spectators lining the streets. Bikes, cars, floats and horses paraded down the street. The RCMP were dressed in red and the 2023 grad class were dressed in their suits and gowns.
PHOTOS BY JOAN JANZEN, click for larger images
A lot of delicious food is served during Wild West Daze, beginning on Friday evening with the Lions annual fish fry at the Leader Community Centre. The next morning, before the parade began, many hungry residents enjoyed the Walking Trail breakfast at the community centre. And after the parade the folks at the Leader Friendship Centre served their always popular Grebble, sometimes known as elephant ears or beaver tales. Meanwhile, food trucks were on hand at the ball diamonds, keeping people well fed and watered.
A slo-pitch tournament, which had kicked off on Friday evening, continued at the ball diamonds throughout the afternoon and evening. There were bouncy castles, face painting, a movie on the big screen, and swimming at the outdoor pool to keep the kids entertained. There was beer gardens for the adults, and later that evening Classey Ferguson provided music for a dance at the Leader Community Centre.
An ecumenical service was held at Leader Alliance Church on Sunday morning, after which the slo-pitch tournament continued, and spectators enjoyed watching an antique tractor pull.
Funds from the Wild West Daze proceeds went to the G3 IcePlex Building Fund, new flooring at the arena, and various improvements at the ball diamonds.
Not only does the community of Leader enjoy all the Wild West Daze activities, but throughout the year they also get to enjoy the benefits which the proceeds bring to the many amenities in their town.