Real Living Spring 2026

More Than a Picnic: Celebrating 27 Years of Community for Seniors For many seniors across Elgin County, summer wouldn’t feel complete without the annual Seniors Picnic in the Park. Now celebrating its 27th year, the popular community event will return on Wednesday, July 8, from 9 am to 2 pm at Pinafore Park in St. Thomas. Sara Sweeney, Co-Chair of Seniors Picnic in the Park and Public Education Coordinator with Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, says her involvement began with a simple desire to connect with the community: “At the time, I was new to Elgin County and wanted to make new connections in the community, and this event allowed me to meet new people and to help plan an event with a main focus on seniors,” she explains. The event has grown into a full morning and afternoon of entertainment, information and social connection. Sara notes that the day begins with Vendor Alley opening at 9 am, where visitors will find more than 50 vendors sharing information, giveaways and resources. “There will be a bag for you at each entrance within Pinafore Park to use to fill up with all the free swag!” she says. “Music begins at 10am and local dignitaries and politicians will be welcoming everyone at noon, followed by dozens of door prizes.” In addition to the Vendor Alley, and live music, the picnic will also feature an antique car show, accessible parking, washrooms and plenty of food options. There will also be free water on site – please bring your own water bottle. Transportation within St. Thomas will also be available for those who need it. “We always work with local transportation services in St. Thomas to provide free rides on the local Railway City Transit,” Sara adds.

LET THERE BE LIGHT Sunlight, Safety & Peace of Mind, Installed Right For anyone who hasn’t attended before, her message is simple: “Please mark your calendar for July 8 from 9 am to 2 pm and bring all of your friends. It is a free event and a very special day and we would love to see you there. Although some may assume the picnic is only for St. Thomas residents, Sara emphasizes that the event welcomes seniors from across the entire region. “At the last few picnics,” she says, “I have met so many wonderful seniors from Fingal, West Lorne, Port Stanley and one couple that I met had invited friends from London to attend. On a beautiful day in July there is nothing better than taking a country drive from all parts of Elgin to join the party at Pinafore Park.”

REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural

Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales

Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoff Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome.

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Page 12 Real Living • Spring 2026

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