‘Dedication, teamwork and community spirit’: Pakenham to host Eastern Ontario Firefighters Association Games
Firefighters from across Eastern Ontario are heading to Pakenham this weekend for a long-standing tradition of competition and community celebration.
The Mississippi Mills Fire Department (MMFD) will host the 114th Eastern Ontario Firefighters Association (EOFA) Games on Saturday, June 20.
The event, considered one of the longest-running firefighter competitions in Canada, will bring together departments from across the region to test their skills through a series of challenges inspired by work on the fireground, the Municipality of Mississippi Mills explains in a media release.
Competitors will take part in events showcasing teamwork, strength, precision and problem-solving, including hose coupling challenges, ladder climbs, bunker gear relays, bucket brigades and the popular Chiefs Race.
The games will take place off Margaret Street behind the Stewart Community Centre. The opening ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by competition at 9 a.m. Admission is free.
“Hosting these Games is a chance to celebrate the dedication, teamwork and community spirit that define our fire service, while also showcasing everything our department has to offer,” stated Fire Chief Mike Williams in a media release. “To all the competitors, thank you for your commitment to training and public safety. To the families and volunteers who make events like this possible, we’re grateful for your support.”
Attendees can also enjoy food vendors, kids’ activities and official EOFA Games merchandise.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by local shops, restaurants and attractions in Pakenham.
A parade of departments will take place following the day’s events, beginning at 7 p.m. Participants will line up at 6:30 p.m. on McWatty Road near the Pakenham Highlands Golf Club.
The 1.6-kilometre parade route will travel:
- Left onto County Road 29
- Right onto Renfrew Street
- Right onto MacFarlane Street
- Left onto Jessie Street
- Right onto Margaret Street, finishing at the racetrack
Folks are encouraged to line the route and cheer on participating fire departments.
The awards ceremony will follow at 8 p.m. at the judges’ stage.
Live music from Small Town Socials will begin at 9 p.m. inside the Stewart Community Centre. Admission for the evening entertainment is $10 per person.
“Events like this remind us how fortunate we are to live in communities where people show up for each other, whether in moments of celebration or challenge,” said Mississippi Mills Mayor Christa Lowry. “Our Mississippi Mills Fire Department embodies that commitment every single day, and this weekend offers a meaningful opportunity to recognize the dedication of firefighters from across Eastern Ontario who share that same spirit of service.”