Families that play together sure eat a lot of hot dogs and hamburgers.
The Coldwell Banker Family Day celebrations at the Penticton Community Centre, Feb. 9 were so much of a success some menu items on the barbecue were gone before it was over.
“It was incredible this year and we even ran out towards the end, some of the buns and stuff but it was all good,” said Joni Cutler of Coldwell Banker who was at the front door directing foot traffic to the various venues inside and out. “It was just so nice to see the camaraderie and everyone was just having so much fun.”
According to Kelly Hopkins, recreation business supervisor for the city, over 800 family members took part in the all-inclusive package and about 500 others dropped in to use the pool and fitness facilities.
Last year's total was 600 so 2015 represented a significant increase much to the delight of organizers.
"We had 1,306 people in six hours, and that's a lot," said Hopkins. "The feedback we were getting throughout the day was amazing, people were so enjoying the time they were spending with their families and the different things we had available for everybody, it didn't matter what your age was."
Both she and Cutler credited the participation of the Penticton Vees of the B.C. Hockey League and advance marketing for this year's increase.
"We're happy to have it over with, that's a tiring day but we're already looking forward to next year. Bigger and better," said Cutler.