The date is set and the early planning is underway for the 2025 Leslieville Block Party, with organizers already promising fresh additions and familiar favourites for the celebration.
The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 13, and will once again bring neighbours together for a day packed with local entertainment, food, and fun.
Melissa Wright, a board member of the organizing committee, says while plans are still taking shape, the team is aiming to build on last year’s success.
“We’re always competing against ourselves to make each year better than the last,” Wright says. “Last year was probably the best yet — it was so well attended and everyone had such great things to say. So, we’re excited to try and top it.”
Among the returning attractions are live music, a local artisan market, wagon rides from the Harness Club, and a car show hosted by the Little Toy Factory.
Wright says street performers — a crowd favourite — will also be part of the festivities.
“We’ve always had some kind of street performance, like Spandy Andy who’s been well-loved in the past,” she said. “This year we’re hoping to bring in some fresh, local performers to mix things up a bit.”
New for 2025, Station 10 of the Leslieville Fire Department will play a larger role, setting up what Wright describes as a hands-on safety expo. The area will include first responder demonstrations — designed to be both interactive and educational.
Newly-erected historic school sign marker at 2024 Leslieville Block Party. (94.5 Rewind Radio/Jordan Rein)
Of course, there will be plenty of food with a community concession stand, run by volunteers at the community hall, along with a wide array of local vendors offering food and handmade goods.
And while the party is open to all, Wright says there is a new request this year: please leave furry friends at home.
“We love our pets, but we did have some issues last year between dogs and horses,” she said. “So this year, we’re just asking folks to keep their dogs at home to help things run smoothly.”
Organizers are also calling for volunteers and sponsors to help make the event a success.
“If you or your organization would like to get involved — either by volunteering or sponsoring part of the event — we’d love to hear from you,” Wright said. “It really is a team effort every year.”
In 2024, the block party drew crowds with activities like bouncy castles, face painting, a fire truck demonstration, and a pie and fall preserve contest. That event also saw a performance by local band Ginger Snap, and featured The Rolling Garage, which helps raise PTSD awareness among veterans and first responders.
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RELATED:
- Work begins at Leslieville Firefighter Training Grounds
- Clearwater County acquires ladder truck from Town of Rocky Mountain House, to serve in Leslieville
- Nearly $1 million worth of capital projects earmarked for Leslieville in 2025
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