ESTEVAN — Corn Cob Junction, the annual fundraiser for the Estevan Bible Camp, will kick off on Sept. 7-8 southeast of Estevan.
The event will feature a new location and a fresh maze design. The popular benefit, a local late summer-fall staple, aims to raise funds to support the camp's operations and future projects.
This year's maze is shaped in the word "Jesus" and a heart, a unique design crafted by camp directors and made possible thanks to help from supporters.
"We reached out to some people who support the camp, and we asked them to create a design," said Shawn Bissonnette, who is one of the camp directors.
The intricate layout was created by the camp directors with the help of a drone and a mower, marking the first time such a detailed design has been achieved.
"We tried to do that last year, but the corn didn't quite grow for us. And so this year we finally got to try to do it again," Bissonnette added.
Corn Cob Junction moved to a new location this year, southeast of Estevan, past the Roche Percee Valley, and organizers hope it will serve as a permanent spot for future events. Bissonnette said big signs will direct traffic to the attraction.
The maze spans about five to six acres, which is a bit smaller than last year's 10-acre setup due to changes in planting plans. In addition to the maze, the event will feature several activities, including a climbing wall, bouncy houses, play structures, a toddler maze made of square bales, and a pit designed like a sandpit but with grain. Snow cones will also be available to help guests cool down.
The maze will be open on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays from 1:30 p.m.-5 p.m.
"Almost all of the people who are working at the corn maze are volunteers. They're just coming to help and support the fundraiser," noted Bissonnette, highlighting the community spirit that drives the event.
Funds raised from Corn Cob Junction help bring more kids to the Estevan Bible Camp and support ongoing and future projects. The organization relies heavily on the generosity of donors, which makes it even more valuable to do something to contribute to the community they serve by organizing events like this fundraiser.
"We get to give something back to the community – something fun to do, something super memorable," said Bissonnette, expressing gratitude for the continued support from volunteers and attendees alike.
The event will run as long as the weather permits, typically until mid-October. Organizers are hopeful that the new location and activities will draw a large crowd.