The children of Busby were buzzing and they hadn’t even picked up their parade candy yet.
They lined the streets of the hamlet as the community’s annual Farmers Days celebration kicked off June 9 with a pancake breakfast and a parade featuring a variety of clubs, businesses and services available in the community. All of whom were throwing candy for the throngs of children that waited so patiently.
The fire sirens blared as the kids lunged at the sight of thrown treats coming from one of the many floats and vehicles that participated. It was the start of a long, fun-filled day for the kids.
“It’s awesome to have everyone come out here. It’s great every year to see everyone. It’s awesome. It brings the community together. It’s a great event to have,” said Westlock County Division 2 Coun. Jared Stitsen.
On the other side of the community, the 14 team slo-pitch tournament was already well underway having started Friday night and continued all weekend.
There were also concessions, a bouncy castle, a farmers’ market and gymkhana, all of which were well patronized by residents and visitors alike.
Long-time Busby residents Marge and Ken Pawlik came out for breakfast and stayed for much of the afternoon.
“It’s wonderful,” said Marge.”It’s a very, very warm community.”
Thelma Jewel hasn’t lived in Busby quite as long, but agrees. She enjoys the celebration every year and came out to watch her granddaughter Phaedra, who is a member of the Busby Gymkhana Club.
“I love it. It’s wonderful,” she said.
The annual event usually draws 400-500 people and likely met the mark this year.
“It’s awesome, it’s so packed in here,” said Taylor Acorn, who works at the Busby Saloon. “It’s amazing. Busby is a great place and everyone should come out here.”
She said she expected the bar to be crowded Saturday night for Red and White Pub Night, a cabaret-style event hosted by the Busby Community League.
“Every year it just strengthens the community,” said Stitsen of the event. “If you don’t do stuff like this, things start to fall apart and this is kind of the backbone. The people here are what this is about, our community members, and it gives them a chance to show their pride for their community.”
