The weather cooperated for this year’s sixth annual Walhaschindig on June 1 — not too hot, and the rain held off — creating the perfect backdrop for the event.
Organizer Assu Nydam says that they welcomed more than 250 guests to the Soldiers Memorial Hall, which also serves as the Walhachin museum, surpassing last year’s count.
“By 2 p.m. we had sold out of Mexican food, burgers, and hotdogs, which was unexpected considering last year’s surplus,” he says. “We plan to adjust for next year to ensure ample food for all.”
Visitors were able to enjoy wall-to-wall live music from a variety of performers from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., as well as play a variety of outdoor games, enjoy a cold beverage, and see some of the museum’s exhibits, which detail life in and around one of the most famous “ghost towns” in the province. The event was by donation, and funds raised will go to support the Soldiers Memorial Hall and its exhibits, ensuring that the hall can continue to serve as a hub for the community.
“We’re grateful to the volunteers whose contributions made our event successful,” says Nydam. “Special thanks to the Thompson-Nicola Regional District and Northern Development Initiative Trust for their ongoing sponsorship, and to the musicians who dedicated their time to our fundraiser.”
If you missed this year’s Walhaschindig, mark your calendars now for June 7, 2025, when the seventh annual event will take place.
In the meantime, you can visit the Soldiers Memorial Hall — built in 1911, when Walhachin was a bustling community surrounded by orchards — and tour the museum from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Monday, until the end of September. Admission is by donation.