Zest of the West returns to Kindersley with food, music and fundraising focus

By Joan Janzen

Zest of the West is returning to Kindersley on April 18 at the West Central Events Centre, bringing back a popular community event last held in 2018.

The original event, organized by the Big Dippers group, raised funds for the indoor pool. This year, organizers are aiming to build on that success, with proceeds going toward a new community centre.

Zest of the West committee members include Roxanne Atkinson, Jen Ginther, Tara Hearn, Chelsea Omness and Shaun Henry.

Organizer Shaun Henry said the idea to revive Zest of the West came from a desire to host a major local event while keeping fundraising dollars in the community.

“I’ve got a great committee,” he said. “They were with the Big Dippers group of the past, and they enjoy bringing it back. They’ve been a great help, and we’ll have volunteers coming and going as well.”

The evening begins with a liquor and food tasting trade show running from 6 to 10 p.m., featuring 22 vendors and more than 80 items. Attendees can sample a variety of food, wine, beer and spirits from businesses across Saskatchewan.

Local musicians Sam Motier and Mike Reece will be joined by Sammy Cirex to provide live entertainment during the tasting portion.

“They’ll be playing background music to keep the mood exciting and energetic,” Henry said. “They will perform some solo acoustic tunes in addition to jamming together.”

Following the tasting, the event shifts into a cabaret-style dance with live music from Sask Steel, performing until 2 a.m. The Saskatchewan-based band blends country with a rock edge and features musicians who first connected while attending the University of Saskatchewan.

“They’re a young, energetic group who play a lot of cover songs,” Henry said, noting the band’s signature “rough twang” sound.

Organizers expect a crowd of 600 or more for the evening, combining food, drink and live entertainment with a community fundraising goal.