December 20, 2020
 
This year marks the 22nd year of Rotary bringing Sparkles in the Park to the Guelph community, and the first year in association with Downtown Guelph Business Association. Sparkles runs from December 19 to December 31, 2020 each evening at Riverside Park. 
 
When Covid-19 presented challenges about holding this annual event, the Rotary Club of Guelph couldn't bear the thought of disappointing our community, at a time when we all NEED some good cheer! So thinking caps went on, we conferred with our city officials, and a drive-through, socially distanced plan was devised. It needed some compromises. We had to forego fireworks on New Year's eve, and also cancel the free carousel rides for children, but what is left is still glorious ... with a couple of new twists such as Santa waving at passersby from a large bubble.
 
When you visit, remember that it's also a fundraiser for charity. Please donate what you can. This QR code links to our fundraising page for tax receiptable online donations here, but you can also donate with cash at the park, or by card with with tap-and-go near the park entrance.
 
Our MPP Mike Schreiner and his wife Sandy volunteered at the very first shift of Sparkles, and posted these photos.