Polynesian Night gets fired up

Posted 1 year ago

BENJAMIN RICETTO Today staffJustin McMullen performs a traditional Samoan fire dance during the Grand Polynesian Night on Saturday at the Sawridge Inn.

BENJAMIN RICETTO

Today staff

For 28 years the spring has been home to a festival like no other in Fort McMurray, the Grand Polynesian Night, which was held this weekend at the Sawridge Inn, and it went out with a bang.

Since 1980, the event has grown from 100 people in the basement of a local church to over 600 at Saturday night’s event. The Grand Polynesian Night has steadily become a staple of Fort McMurray culture and entertainment.

“With friendly faces, we welcome the spring and summer. We are bringing warmth, sharing and caring to the community.

“Tonight was a success. Our support is growing every year, with such good response to our activities.”

The evening featured a delicious meal, live music and a traditional dancing.

“We plan for this event from January to May in preparation for spring,” Loo added.

Polynesian Night represents the cultures of the South Pacific, with countries such as Fiji and New Zealand represented. “We have a traditional Hawaiian worship song to start with, and we like to finish with the Samoan fire dance and slap dance,” said Loo.

April Booth, who attended the event with her family, said the night is great for families as it offers a lot of entertainment. “This event is great every year we come. It has so much to offer.”

From the traditional leis that were handed out when guest arrived, to the fire dancing and musical acts, this event seemed to attract all people from Fort McMurray.

Dominic House, who has attended Polynesian Night for the last 15 years, said, “It’s getting bigger and better every night, its really enjoyable.”

House added he is neighbours with people of Polynesian descent. “(Polynesian Night) makes me feel part of the family.”

bricetto@fortmcmurraytoday.com