Hawkestone Happenings
—by Rebecca Rodgers
There’s a renewed sense of energy in Hawkestone as the community looks ahead to a vibrant spring season at Hawkestone Hall. Following last year’s ice storm damage, basement renovations are now nearly complete – and the transformation is something to celebrate. The refreshed space will soon be ready to welcome back full-use rentals, gatherings, and the many activities that make the Hall such an important hub for local connection.
With the return of this revitalized space comes a full calendar of events that invite residents of all ages to gather, participate, and enjoy the season together.
SPECIAL EVENT NOTICE
Am Shalom, PJ Library, NCJWC Simcoe County, and the Jewish Mamas of Barrie have come together to bring Shakespearience to Simcoe County, and we would be delighted if you could join us with your family, friends, or team.
This engaging 90-minute workshop blends live theatre, audience participation, and guided discussion. Using Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice as a starting point, it explores how historically significant works that contain antisemitic elements should be taught, interpreted, and understood today.
At a time when communities across Canada are confronting rising antisemitism and reflecting on how we engage with history and culture, events like this create space for thoughtful dialogue, shared learning, and connection through the arts. Your presence would mean a great deal to our community, and we would also be grateful if you might consider sharing the attached invitation with your networks.
No prior knowledge of Shakespeare is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to join the conversation.
VISIT FOR DETAILS AND TICKETS
By publication date we will have held our Pre-Easter Egg Hunt on March 28. This was cancelled last year, again because of the ice storm – the community is very excited for the Bunny to visit again!
The Hall will host a Euchre Afternoon on Sunday, April 26 – an opportunity to enjoy cards, refreshments, and great company. Anyone interested is encouraged to reach out to cynthiaduffy@gmail.com.
Music lovers can look forward to the Hawkestone Singers Spring Concert on Sunday, May 24, celebrating the season through song and community spirit.
Green thumbs won’t want to miss the Annual Plant Sale on Saturday, May 30, featuring a wide variety of quality plants at affordable prices, with all proceeds supporting the Hall.
Plans are also underway for the community’s Canada Day festivities on July 1, with the usual full day of events – parade, BBQ, vendors, entertainment, silent auction and more.
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In addition to these special events, Hawkestone Hall continues to offer a range of regular programming that keeps the space active and welcoming throughout the week. Thursday Socials provide time for young families at 10 a.m. and an adult drop-in at 2 p.m. Wellness offerings include Yoga, Sound Journeys, NIA exercise, etc. Look on our calendar to see all the happenings at www.hawkestone.org.
For those interested in booking the newly refreshed space, rental information is available through jknechtel@oro-medonte.ca.
As the days grow longer and brighter, Hawkestone Hall continues to be a place where neighbours connect, friendships grow, and community thrives. We welcome everyone for another season of shared experiences and community spirit.
LOOKING BACK!
Some NSCN covers from the early 2000s! Scanned from our physical archive (a little worse for wear!) 
