Hub Staff

While many Saugeen Shores residents rang in the New Year with friends and family at various events throughout Port Elgin and Southampton, local children along with their families got to experience some 2016 New Year's celebrations earlier in the day at the Plex in Port Elgin as The Lake Huron Children’s Festival Committee (LHCFC) presented 'A Magical New Year's' in Saugeen Shores along with event sponsors, the Port Elgin & District Lions Club as well as The Wismer House.

The sold out event gave families an opportunity to experience a variety of fun and activities that started in the afternoon.

Although the planned dog sled rides couldn't run because of the lack of snow, the Glacial Lake Kennel's Siberian Huskies were still a great hit as children got to spend some up close and personal time with the dogs. A horse sleigh took riders around the area and skating was available inside.

The New Year's Eve party saw a whole host of events with children having their faces painted and an opportunity to mingle with characters such as Mickey & Minnie Mouse, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle and even a Minion.

Dancing, games and crafts, a buffet and cash bar were all part of the fun and a balloon drop early in the evening allowed young children to ring in the New Year.

All funds raised from the event, which included ticket sales, a raffle and silent auction will go towards a splash pad in Saugeen Shores.