Hundreds of people, and just about as many umbrellas, were out on the Opeongo Line on Saturday, May 20 for Bay Day.
The pouring rain didn’t dampen enthusiasm for the flagship Barry’s Bay BIA-run event, as stores, community groups and food vendors welcomed guests to booths.
BIA member Angie Jessup, the owner of Dairy Freez, says Bay Day is an important event to celebrate the return of cottagers. She says businesses hold the event on Victoria Day weekend, as a way of thanking both seasonal and full-year residents for their support.
“It tells folks that we appreciate them; that’s why we do this,” she says. “It lets the people of Barry’s Bay know, ‘this is what we want to do to thank you for helping us out.’ We have a great day today. Everyone has a great day today, so this is why we do it.”
Jessup adds the Barry’s Bay business community is optimistic about a strong summer. She says last year was a bounce back year for business, after two COVID-impacted seasons, and she believes positive growth will continue.