Family Day 2026 was quite a splash.

The Lions Club of Cranbrook, along with Save-On-Foods and CUPE Local 4165 sponsored three hours of free swimming and two hours of free skating to help celebrate Family Day for Cranbrook and area residents. The event happened at Western Financial Place, from noon to 3 p.m. on Feb. 16.

In addition to the exercise aspects of this special day, the Lions Club members had gone throughout the city to get sponsors for their major treat table.  Participants were able to refresh themselves with juice boxes, water, hot chocolate, cookies, donuts, danish, and scones of many flavours.  Most people also took away coupons for treats at a later date from the sponsors.

“It is really amazing to see how many local businesses were anxious to help out,” said Curtis Bell, Lions Club President. “Several companies gave us treats or drinks, while others gave cash or gift cards that were sold and helped to pay for the supplies.”

City staff at the pool keep a close eye on the number of swimmers, with a maximum allowed of 240 at any one time.  For a while, there was a line-up of families waiting for others to exit before they could enter.  Many of those families took advantage of the treat tables to keep the kids occupied while waiting.

“I think the best part of the day,” said Bell, “was how many times we heard ‘Thank you’ from the young ones.  It gives us hope for the future to hear such polite gratitude.”

The Cranbrook Lions Club would like to thank the following sponsors (in alpha order) A & W, Blue Lake, Boston Pizza, Burger King, Cob’s Bakery, Dairy Queen, East Side Mario’s, Kal Tire, McDonalds, Mister Tire, Safeway, Save-on-Foods, Signwriters, Superstore, Thom Boys, Tim Hortons, Toyota, and Winmar Restorations.

Anyone wishing to join the Lions Club should call Curtis Bell at 250-489-3782.

Lead image: Lions – Always ready to serve. Photo by Albert Jonker

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