Return of C.A.L.I.P.S.O by Marna Berry As April showers promise the bloom of May flowers, the Port Stanley Calipso Festival Committee is abuzz with anticipation for the return of the C.A.L.I.P.S.O Summer Festival. Slated for the Civic Holiday weekend, August
2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2025, this event, currently awaiting the nod from the Central Elgin Special Events Committee & Council, is poised to be the crown jewel of our summer festivities. C.A.L.I.P.S.O, standing for Come And Live In Port Stanley Ontario, is not just an event; it’s a celebration of our vibrant community and the unique charm that Port Stanley has to offer. The festival, which was first held in 2019, emerged as a beacon of community spirit and unity, filling the gap left by the discontinuation of the Canada Day and Harbour Fest Events. Despite the setbacks of 2020 and 2021 due to COVID restrictions, the festival’s spirit remained undimmed, and we are eager to bring back the joy and camaraderie that define our gatherings. This year’s festival promises a blend of beloved traditions and fresh attractions. From Captain Thom Bedlam’s Magic Show to Magical Mermaids, the festival is a treasure trove of entertainment. The Lions Antique Car Show, The Beauty Bombshells, and a plethora of artisans and exhibitors add to the festival’s allure. Not to forget the Kids Sandcastle Competition, CALIPSO Marketplace, and the enchanting Kids Zone on Little Beach, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. As we gear up for this year’s C.A.L.I.P.S.O Summer Festival, we’re also calling on the community for volunteers and ideas. This festival is a testament to our collective creativity and dedication to celebrating our diverse, vibrant local culture. Whether it’s through participating in the CALIPSO Photography Contest, enjoying the Boat Parade, Fireworks on the Berm at dusk, or simply soaking in the tropical vacation theme that envelops the village, your involvement is what makes this event special. Stay tuned for some exciting new additions and make sure to follow our CALIPSO Festival Facebook group for updates. As we prepare for this fun-filled event, let’s come together to make the 2025 C.A.L.I.P.S.O Summer Festival a memorable celebration of our community’s spirit and charm.
Photo courtesy of Hot Shoe Hustle Photography.
Port Stanley Villager April 2025 cover March 1st once again saw the Childcan Polar Bear Dip on Little Beach in Port. This year, 56 teams, made up of 424 participants, raised over $115,000! Photo by Geoff Rae
Port Stanley Villager Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor /Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoffrey Rae unless otherwise indicated. Writer – Peri Hayes Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com
Thank you Elgin-Middlesex-London for your support! Here to Serve!
Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood C opyright @ 2015 Villager Publications.
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Port Stanley Villager • April 2025 • Page 13
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