For likely all of human history, people have celebrated the first day of summer – the summer solstice.
What’s the science behind the summer solstice? June 20 is the day the sun travels the longest path through the sky. When summer solstice happens, the North Pole is tilted about 23.4 degrees toward the sun. Solstice occurs when the sun reaches both the highest and northernmost points in the sky.
What does that mean for us? It’s the day with the most sunlight all year, so more time to enjoy the great outdoors! Although this summer is going to look a little different than usual, that doesn’t mean you can’t get outside and enjoy nature. Explore a part of Manitoba you haven’t seen yet – the southeast corner of the province has something for everyone. Here are the top five things to do to celebrate the first day of summer in Sunrise Corner.
Fired Up Food Truck in Vita
Father’s Day conveniently falls on the weekend that Vita’s Canada Day Committee has arranged a unique food experience for you, your dad and the whole family. The Fired-Up Mobile Wood Fired Pizza food truck will be in town from June 19 to 21. Go to Vita Canada Day’s Facebook page for more information.
Sprague & District Historical Museum
Did you know that the Sprague & District Historical Museum is the only museum in the RM of Piney? A scenic two-hour drive south of Winnipeg you’ll find a treasure trove of historical interactive displays, photos and artifacts including a tribute to local veterans. If you’ve been wanting to research your family’s history in southeast Manitoba, this is the place to start. Visit the museum’s Facebook page for more information.
Sandilands Provincial Forest
The Sandilands Provincial Forest, in southeastern Manitoba, covers thousands of acres of sand hills, forest and wetlands. The area has been logged for decades and is popular for hiking, hunting and camping. Whether you are wanting to go for a hike or an ATV ride, Sandilands Provincial Forest is the place to be. The best staging area is in Woodridge. Check out the trail map here before you go.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a family-friendly activity for all ages. Sunrise Corner has more than ten caches hidden around the RMs of Stuartburn and Piney near attractions and historical sites. It is the perfect activity to kick off summer. Visit www.geocaching.com and search one of the communities in Sunrise Corner to see which caches are nearby. Have fun!
Agassiz Interpretive Trail
Looking for an easy walk you can do with the whole family or by yourself? Then Agassiz Interpretive Trail is for you. The trail winds through the unique tall-grass prairie ecosystem and aspen forest. While walking, watch for one of the many endangered plants that call this area home, such as lady slippers and orchids. It is also a great place to bird watch, so bring your camera and binoculars. You can either walk the 1.75-kilometer route or go through the aspen forest on the 3-kilometer trail. The trailhead is located on Road 36 East, just off Hwy 201 between Stuartburn and Vita.