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, who's a board member with the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce and chair of the Cookstown Experience, said the recent 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 to 19,” said South Simcoe Theatre president Nancy Chapple Smokler.
Diana Robinson, co-owner of the Cookstown Antique Market, 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," she said.
Over the last decade or more, Monaghan said Cookstown has experienced some changes and growth. New businesses have taken root, while some old ones still thrive.
"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," she said.
Follow the Cookstown & District Chamber of Commerce for events happening all year long.
