This past fall, the 95-year-old service club launched its first Fall into Winter arts and crafts sale, held Sept. 27 at Baxter Park. Organizers estimate between 2,000 and 3,000 people attended the inaugural event, which featured artisan vendors, favourable weather, and additional attractions such as classic car displays. The Kinsmen now plan to make this […]
This past fall, the 95-year-old service club launched its first Fall into Winter arts and crafts sale, held Sept. 27 at Baxter Park. Organizers estimate between 2,000 and 3,000 people attended the inaugural event, which featured artisan vendors, favourable weather, and additional attractions such as classic car displays. The Kinsmen now plan to make this event a yearly tradition.
The new fundraiser builds on the success of the club’s Spring into Summer arts and crafts sale, which began in 2022 and typically raises approximately $5,000 each year. Both events are hosted at Baxter Park, a location with long-standing ties to the Kinsmen, including the former site of their clubhouse prior to its demolition in 2016.
Alongside fundraising, the events also highlight ongoing investments in Baxter Park. The Kinsmen have supported several park improvements in recent years, including the installation of a pergola, historical storyboards, and upgrades to sport courts.
Earlier this month, the Sarnia Kinsmen Club distributed nearly $70,000 in grants to close to 20 community organizations across the region. Funding recipients included local cadet programs, social service agencies, health-focused charities, and community groups. Approximately $20,000 of the total was allocated to support the annual Sarnia Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade.
Major fundraising initiatives continue to play a critical role in enabling these grants. Ribfest, hosted annually since 1999, remains the club’s largest revenue generator, typically raising about $50,000 each year. In 2025, attendance at Ribfest during Father’s Day weekend was estimated at more than 15,000 people.
Recent improvements at Baxter Park also include infrastructure upgrades to recreational facilities. Work is underway to expand the perimeter of the park’s two pickleball courts, increasing clearance beyond the out-of-bounds lines. The project also includes the creation of a separate basketball court extension, allowing the facilities to function independently. The total cost of the upgrades is estimated at $33,000, with resurfacing planned for completion in the spring.
Through a combination of new fundraising events, established community traditions, and ongoing park investments, the Sarnia Kinsmen Club continues to play a significant role in supporting local organizations and enhancing shared public spaces throughout the city.
