We are in the midst of May long weekend, a weekend that can be very unpredictable when it comes to the weather. Over the years we've seen 30 degree heat, severe thunderstorms, freezing temperatures and even snow. For example, in 2021 we hit 33 on this day but in 2019 it was -3. 

It is the kick off to summer weekend one way or the other and that makes us think of BBQ's. And camping. And golf. And fishing. Working in the yard. Seeding for producers. And.....well you get the picture.

Here is a rundown of some local activities and things you may want to check out this Victoria Day weekend and you can always check out the events calendar at any time of year.

Do you like garage sales? This is a very popular time of year for those as people clean up their yards, sheds, garages and homes. If you are having a sale at any point you can not only list them for free at garage sale junkie but that's also the place to go to find out where they are each weekend.

How about some golf? The courses in the area are of to a great start. Portage, Southport, Bridges in Starbuck, MacGregor, Gladstone, Scottswood Links in Elm Creek and the Delahunt course at Treherne are all taking tee times now.

Fishing?  Back again for the umpteenth year is the fishing derby in support of Children's Wish hosted by Sportsmen's Corner. In fact, almost all provincial parks are now open and camping is a popular May long weekend activity for sure. Wildfires are still burning near Cranberry Portage so some parks are closed in that area.

Do you plan to work in the yard? Our Farm Greenhouse is not only open for the season but they have brought in some food trucks and planned for some extra family fun this weekend. The Canadian Tire Garden Centre is also open and Dave and his team are ready to help you out.

Whether it be a BBQ, planting things in the yard and garden, backyard fires, camping, fishing, a special treat or something else, you will find what you need at the stores listed below. For most it is regular hours this weekend while some will vary for the holiday Monday.

Popular store hours for Victoria Day (Monday) 

  • Canadian Tire and the now-open garden center: 9 am to 6 pm

  • Our Farm Greenhouse: 9 am to 8 pm

  • Panko's: Noon to 6 pm

  • Sobeys: 7 am to 10 pm 

  • Homestead Co-op Portage food store: 10 am to 6 pm,  Sask Ave Gas Bar: 7 am to 10 pm, River Road closed  

  • Mil-Jeanne Flowers and Axcenz, JS Furniture and Dino's Appliance and Mattress Centre: closed

  • Dufresne Furniture: 11 am to 6 pm 

  • MacDonald Sporting Goods: 9 am to 5 pm

  • What's the Scoop: 1 pm to 9 pm

  • McMunn and Yates Building Supplies: closed

  • Rona: 1 pm to 5 pm