Evacuees staying in Saskatoon were treated to a carnival at Praireland Park on Thursday.
The free event featured bouncy castles, face-painters, balloon animals and plenty of popcorn, ice cream and pop. The kids also got a chance to meet three Disney princesses.
Lillian Apesis said she and her two children have been out of their home for two weeks.
“When the first smoke hit town, my son has health issues and we had to get him out of there, just for his safety,” she said.
With two little ones to keep occupied day in and day out, she said the event was a blessing.
“Being here was very exciting for them — but now I think they’re getting tired,” she said with a laugh.
Apesis said it was also a good chance to catch up with other evacuees from her hometown of English Bay.
“It’s good to see familiar faces here…we’re just visiting with each other, it feels good. It kind of feels like being back at home but not really,” she said.
Balloon animals handed out to evacuee children at Prairieland Park. Bryn Levy/CKOM News.
Tracy Aubichon said she’s thankful she and her children were able to stay in Saskatoon with her sister, even if the conditions are a little cramped.
“There’s 15 of us there. And we’re helping out each other,” she said.
With five kids all under the same roof, Aubichon said it was good to have someplace to go for the day.
“To kepp them busy, it’s good, instead of just staying indoors and figuring out what to do. Little events like this help out,” she said.
The province estimates as many as 14,000 people have been evacuated due to wildfires. About 2800 evacuees are staying in Saskatoon.
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