MIDALE — Pioneer Echoes days drew a big crowd to Midale on Aug. 3 and 4, bringing the community together to celebrate its rich heritage with a variety of events and activities. The annual event, organized by the Souris Valley Antique Association (SVAA), saw approximately 600 people attend the pancake breakfasts held on both days, surpassing previous years' averages of 500 attendees.
"It went really well. It was very busy. We had record attendance for our breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday," said Ryan Swenson, vice-president of the SVAA.
Despite some weather challenges on Sunday, the event saw higher participation overall, with significant community and out-of-town engagement in various demonstrations and activities.
"Our participation, not only from the community but people that have come from out of town, was really impressive," Swenson noted.
The town's historical village was open to guests. A tractor parade occurred at 2 p.m., with dozens of old tractors making their way through the grounds, showcasing machines that belong to the museum and those that people brought in for the weekend.
A live threshing demo followed the parade.
The weekend's events also included a larger-than-ever trade show showcasing local and smaller businesses.
"All in all, as far as the events went, it was phenomenal. We couldn't be happier. Everything went off without a hitch," Swenson added.
A new addition this year was the people mover, which received positive feedback for its convenience in transporting attendees to different parts of the festival, including the Midale Classy Car Show and Shine on Main Street.
"It was a great addition, it was full all weekend. And when the guy that ran it would take a break, there were countless people coming up saying they'd like to go for a ride," said Swenson.
The success of the people mover has prompted organizers to consider expanding this service next year, so it never has to stop.
The festival also had a use for the new SVAA and Midale Rodeo Committee's building, put up by the RM of Cymri, which hosted various activities throughout the weekend.
"[Midale Rodeo Committee] used it for their cabaret on Friday night after the Bull Bash and ran a beer garden out of it all weekend. Live music again on Saturday night... It was really nice to see," Swenson said, highlighting the building's contribution to the event's overall success, and noting that SVAA will now be able to store the antiques in there over the winter.
Funds raised from Pioneer Echoes Days will support the association's operating costs, following the recent loss of one of its major sponsors, Swenson noted.
Reflecting on the weekend, Swenson emphasized the positive community feedback and the smooth execution of events.
