The Cookstown Experience had something for everyone.
Community members were invited to enjoy local cuisine and wine, appreciate the beauty of floral design, take a duo art class, meet small business owners and artisans, try curling, tour the theatre, and try Texas-style treats after shopping for their next treasured antique.
Organized by the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce, it was anything but ‘business as usual’ for most participants.
Sue Monaghan, Board Member of the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Cookstown Experience told InnisfilToday that the event was a success overall with room for improvement.
“We were grateful to join in with the Town of Innisfil for the Winter Weekends initiative and hope to participate again next year," Monaghan explained. "This year's experience was made up of multiple promotions and events happening at local businesses throughout town."
The Cookstown Curling Club shared its space to host some local vendors while they ran their 'Try It' event, and The South Simcoe Theatre joined in on the experience, touring a small but enthusiastic group of visitors.
"The history of the theatre was shared, as well as a full tour of the set being built for their upcoming production of I Hate Hamlet by Paul Rudnick, on stage from March 2-19th,” said Nancy Chapple Smokler, president of the South Simcoe Theatre.
Co-owner of the Cookstown Antique Market, Diana Robinson, explained that It’s always a wonderful feeling to have local support when operating a small business.
"The majority of businesses within Cookstown are ‘owner/operator,’ which usually translates into smaller marketing budgets. Hopefully, this event will connect customers to more businesses in their neighbourhood.”
Over the last decade or more, Monaghan said that Cookstown has experienced some changes and some growth. New businesses have taken root, while some old ones still thrive. She added "our goal next year is to promote even more to let more people know exactly what our town can offer. As always, we invite everyone to come visit any day of the year."
Follow the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce for events happening all year long.
Amber Green is a freelance journalist for Village Media Inc.
