35 Years of Tradition: Poplar Hill Gears Up for Annual Picnic by Pamma Hubbert On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the Poplar Hill community will proudly host the 135th Lobo Union School Picnic, a cherished tradition that began in 1889. What started as a simple gathering of local families to celebrate elementary school students has grown into a full-day celebration of heritage, fun, and community spirit. The festivities will kick off at 12:00 noon with a flag-raising ceremony, welcoming remarks from local dignitaries, and a children’s draw. Held at Lobo Memorial Park—land purchased in 1919 by community trustees—the event has long been a cornerstone of local life. Originally involving ten school districts, including Komoka, Goldcreek, Coldstream, Jury, and Poplar Hill, the picnic once featured tennis matches, football games, and basket lunches. Over time, additions like student parades, torchlit programs, and baby contests helped define the event’s character.
Pie Booth, inflatable jumpers, storytime, and an evening Lip Synch show. A Lions’ Chicken BBQ dinner will cap off the day. “The heart of this picnic has always been about connection— honouring where we came from while creating new memories together,” says Heather, one of the picnic’s longtime volunteers. With something for every age, including new programming aimed at teens, the 135th Lobo Union School Picnic promises to be another unforgettable chapter in a much-loved legacy.
Although centralization in the 1960s led to declining attendance, the Poplar Hill Lions Club and later community volunteers revived interest with new attractions. Today’s picnic blends the old with the new—races, baby showing, the ever-popular Ladies
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Page 10 Ilderton and Area Villager • May 2025
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