July at the Village: A Month of Simple Joys, Special Moments, and Jamboree Buzz
July might have been a quieter month for big events, but it was packed with the kinds of everyday moments that make life at Harbour Landing Village feel full. From fudgesicles to friendship bracelets, and mac and cheese to heartfelt tributes, we celebrated the little things that bring people together — all while gearing up for the biggest event of our year.
Fudgesicles & Chocolate Joy
We kicked things off with World Chocolate Day. Instead of going big, we went nostalgic — handing out fudgesicles to residents and staff to beat the heat and bring a little sweetness to the day. It was simple, it was cold, and it was the perfect reminder that even the smallest treat can brighten someone’s afternoon.
Village Lightning Lager Launch Party
One of our biggest highlights this month was the launch of Village Lightning Lager — our custom brew made by Nokomis Craft Ales. We celebrated the launch with a karaoke night at Roots Kitchen & Bar featuring none other than Village Lightning, the band that inspired the name. From powerhouse ballads to crowd sing-alongs, the energy was electric. Even better? Proceeds from every pint poured went toward the One Heart Training Project Fund, supporting important community work across Saskatchewan. Good beer, good music, good cause — hard to top that combo.
A Tribute That Hits Home
On July 16 — which also happened to be Cher Hnatiuk’s 80th birthday — we officially opened the Con Hnatiuk Memorial Parking Lot & Walking Path. Con was a huge part of our Village journey between 2017 and 2019, offering his insight, humour, and steady presence during a key time of growth. He once said, “Never build a great restaurant and forget the parking!” and we never forgot it. The newly expanded parking area and accessible walking path leading to our front doors is now a permanent tribute to his legacy. It was incredibly meaningful to celebrate this milestone with Cher and the rest of the Hnatiuk family.
Childcare Pool Party
Over in childcare, the team threw an all-out summer pool party that had everything: sprinklers, lemonade, watermelon slices, and sunshine. The kids ran around barefoot, splashed in the water, and laughed all afternoon — the kind of day that reminded us all what summer is supposed to feel like. And with the party happening just outside, it brought some added smiles to our residents watching from inside, too.
Friendship Day (and an Unexpected Reunion)
Friendship Day brought our community together in such a fun and meaningful way. Residents, childcare kids, and staff all sat down to make colourful friendship bracelets, exchange stories, and snap Polaroid photos to capture the day. But what stood out most was a story we didn’t expect — when Elaine moved in recently, we paired her with Gladys to help her feel more at home. It didn’t take long for the two to realize they were actually long-lost friends from years ago. Reconnecting on Friendship Day felt like something out of a movie — a full-circle moment that we’ll be talking about for a long time.
Mac & Cheese Cook-Off
As a warm-up to our Country Jamboree, we hosted a Mac & Cheese Contest featuring six teams from across the Village. From extra creamy to crispy-topped to unexpected twists like corn or pickles — everyone brought their A-game. We had three judges, one celebrity guest, and lots of friendly competition. It was the perfect way to build excitement for what’s coming next…
Jamboree Is Almost Here
We’re now officially counting down to our 5th Annual Country Jamboree, happening on Wednesday, August 27 — and trust us, it’s going to be our best one yet.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s lined up:
- Horse-drawn carriage rides from Prairie Percherons
- Fenek Farms Traveling Petting Zoo
- Mechanical bull & inflatables
- Western Outpost Marketplace
- Roots Honky Tonk Patio with BBQ & live music
- Cold Village Lightning Lager on tap
Whether you’ve been to all five or this is your first time — we promise a day full of energy, connection, and celebration. The Jamboree is more than an event — it’s a Village tradition. And we can’t wait to share it with all of you.
