Cruise nights are an old and fun sweet tradition, which are becoming more and more popular during the age of self-isolation. But with a recent negative example in Carievale, other communities considering the activity now have to think twice about calling for one.
On the other hand, a positive example of a recently held Oxbow cruise night suggests that if rules are in place and communities remain responsible, it can be a great way to shake things up and support local restaurants. So the Estevan community also put the word out to have a cruise night on May 9.
Chelsea Choma, who created the event on Facebook, set 6 p.m. as average start time, however, she underlined that she expects people to just go for a drive at any time and ensure that while having fun, everyone is still following all of the health regulations.
“There’s no real event or meet time or anything like that, as you can’t have gatherings with today’s public health rules. I just wanted to encourage people to get out of their houses for an evening and support our local businesses in town,” said Choma.
She added that she isn’t really organizing anything, but just suggested that a cruise night is a great way to cheer everybody up during these trying times. She personally plans to go for a drive that evening and pick up supper for the family.
Choma hopes that others will also support the initiative and enjoy time with their families in their city.
“If you live in or close to town, on Saturday evening why not break out of the house, fill up the car with gas, give her a wash, get some take-out and go cruise the loop of Estevan and support our local businesses in town,” said Choma on the event page.
She also underlined that first of all everyone participating should remember about the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s regulations.
“I am not condoning any gatherings or breaking of public health orders. Please abide by social distancing rules and gatherings of no more than 10. This is purely an idea to have people get out of their houses and support the local businesses; there is no actual start time or meeting place,” said Choma.
With many local restaurants currently offering a take-out option, Estevan shouldn’t experience any problems with people all coming to one place, and the night can become a great experience for the younger generation, who probably completely missed out on the times of cruise nights.
Besides, coming together while staying apart in this manner will still help people who might be stressed due to the current situation.
“We can’t live in fear, people still need to get out and enjoy themselves for their mental health,” said Choma.
