At the heart of the North American continent, Winnipeg is subject to the vagaries of Canadian winters. In 2016 the kilt skate had to be cancelled because the ice at Riley Duck Pond was melting. Again this year, a mild winter made the originally-scheduled date untenable. But rather than cancel the event outright, Winnipeg (current holder of bragging rights as Kilt Skate Capital of Canada) took a chance on rescheduling for later in February. As Evelyn Mitchell, organizer of Winnipeg’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate, reports, the gamble paid off:

“The St. Andrew’s Society of Winnipeg's Great Canadian Kilt Skate was a huge success after being postponed from February 11 due to a lack of available skating ice. The weather on February 25 at the Riley Family Duck Pond at Assiniboia Park was perfect, with sunshine and solid ice on the pond, allowing over 80 people from various Scottish groups in the community to come together for a fantastic day of skating and fun.

Evelyn continues, “The event featured Scottish country dances performed by the Lads and Lasses.

“We had participants from Kids in Kilts to the Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders Regiment.

“The Sinclair Clan, and Stewart Clan also attended, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, a children’s table was set up with games,

“We organized a very competitive Clash of the Tartans trivia game.

“CTV, CBC Radio, and the Winnipeg Free Press covering the event with interviews and photos.

“The event provided an excellent opportunity for Scottish people in Winnipeg to come together, make new friends, and enjoy a day of skating and camaraderie.

“It also attracted people from outside the Scottish community, including a couple from Ukraine who skated for the first time and spoke about sharing the same Patron Saint. Everyone was treated to coffee, hot chocolate, and Timbits, making it a day to remember for all who attended.”

Congratulations to Evelyn and all the team at the St. Andrew’s Society of Winnipeg.