The final day of first session programming arrived far sooner than any of us were ready for, making today feel a little bittersweet.
Campers spent the day soaking up every last moment of their favourite activities, making the most of period. Even the wind seemed to know it was an important day, delivering perfect conditions across the waterfront. In the afternoon, our sports instructor invited camper and staff sports fans to Rustic Lounge to watch the World Cup final on the big screen – a special treat with popcorn to boot.
As evening approached, we were transported through a black hole to the out-of-this-world of “Planet Arowhon”.
The Bears staff transformed the Main Lodge into outer space for our annual Cotillion banquet, filling it with planets, stars, and friendly aliens. At the centre of it all stood a towering ten-foot rocket ship, complete with beeping and flashing lights that made the perfect photo backdrop.
Dinner featured the Cotillion classics of smoked salmon pâté canapés, steak with curly fries, and decadent truffles and chocolate-covered strawberries for dessert. As always, our kitchen team outdid themselves.
After dinner came one of the longest-standing traditions at Arowhon: Rustic Lounge (an original play written and performed by the Senior Bears).
For generations, Rustic has been a lighthearted satire of the memorable moments, camp jokes, and characters that made each first session unique. This year’s performance was no exception. The Bears dressed up as staff had the entire theatre roaring with laughter, especially during a few well-placed jabs at the Director Team. Their creativity, commitment, and countless hours of preparation were evident from the opening scene to the final bow, and we are so grateful for all the work they put into making such a memorable evening for the entire camp.
As the curtains closed, it was impossible not to feel a little nostalgic. The final day of programming is always a reminder of just how quickly camp seems to fly by. Friendships have grown stronger, campers have grown more confident, and together we’ve created memories that will last far beyond the summer.
Tomorrow we’ll celebrate all that first session has been. But tonight, under the stars of Planet Arowhon, we simply enjoyed being together. Laughing, cheering, and appreciating the last days of another unforgettable summer.
