MOOSE JAW — The Midwest Shrine Association (MSA) summer conference will wrap up with a burst of colour, music, and community spirit you don’t want to miss as more than 400 Shriners parade down Main Street North from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Aug. 23.
The procession — the largest of its kind ever held in Moose Jaw and the first of its kind in Saskatchewan — will feature 48 units of Shriners from across Canada and the United States, capping a four-day celebration of fellowship, philanthropy, and fun.
“After an exciting weekend of events from Wednesday, Aug. 20, right through until the night of Friday, Aug. 22, we’re winding it all up with a big parade on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 23,” said Aaron Ruston, director general of the MSA 2025 event.
The lineup begins at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall before the parade heads south on Main Street from Saskatchewan Drive to Manitoba Street. Ruston said residents are welcome to arrive early to see the units getting organized.
“Now a unit (represents) each (individual) club, and the Shriners have different cars, motorcycles, horses … we have 48 units coming. In there, there’s often six, seven, eight, or even 10 Shriners on (each separate float), so there’s going to be a lot of people,” Ruston said.
True to the Shriners’ core mission, the parade will offer plenty of excitement for children.
“Of course, the clowns are going to be there, (and there will be) lots of colours and excitement (as we do) what the Shriners do — entertain children and families while taking care of their special health needs.”
Ruston stressed the importance of keeping Main Street clear of vehicles to ensure safety for both participants and spectators ahead of the parade.
“Parking will be blocked from 10 a.m. right through until noon,” he said. “We’re going to have people out there making sure that (motorists) don’t park (along the parade route), just to keep it safe for everyone.”
The parade is just one of several public opportunities to connect with the Shriners during the upcoming conference. On Thursday, Aug. 21, a community meet-and-greet will take place at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds from 5:30 to 8 p.m., featuring vendors, special guests, and plenty of photo opportunities.
“It’s going to be a real connection with the community,” Ruston said. “It’s really about connecting with people, reminding them what the Shriners do, but also having fun at the same time.”
Ruston encouraged residents to reach out and show their hospitality throughout the weekend.
“If you see a stranger in town or somebody new, welcome them and just say, ‘Hey, it’s so good to have you here.’ Just make them feel really welcome.”
For more information, including a full event schedule, visit MSA2025.com or search “Midwest Shrine Association MSA 2025” on Facebook.
