MORTLACH — A special weekend event in Mortlach will bring together veterans and community members to honour service, share stories, and show appreciation — all with a side of hometown hospitality.
The Pitstop Family Diner, located at 111 Rose Street in the heart of the village, will host its second annual “Veterans Appreciation” weekend on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.
The event is free to attend and welcomes veterans from all branches, including the Royal Canadian Legion, Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS), Cadets, and other affiliated groups.
“It’s a fabulous opportunity for veteran units to engage with each other and the public at large, and to further establish their footprint in their communities,” wrote Terry Bittles, owner of the Pitstop Diner.
Display booths will be available free of charge for groups to set up fundraising tables, share information about what they do, or establish recruitment stations. Veterans and their organizations will be running draws, 50/50s, and raffles throughout the weekend, with food and bar service also on site.
“All veterans are welcome to attend and conduct recruiting efforts as well as fundraising,” Bittles added.
In addition to the military-themed displays, visitors can explore the on-site Bohemian Marketplace — an eclectic space that features local and guest artwork, including the renowned wood carvings of Darren Jones and metal sculptures by “Iron Mike” Boudoin. Larger-than-life carvings of cultural icons Don Cherry and The Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie will be on display.
“The weather forecast is looking awesome, so we should have a great weekend of fun and engagement,” said Bittles.
Last year’s inaugural event drew strong support from both veterans and visitors, and organizers are hopeful for an even bigger turnout this time around. The idea, Bittles said, is to create a relaxed and welcoming space where people can connect, reflect, and show appreciation for those who have served.
The Pitstop Family Diner is known locally not just for its hearty meals but also for its community spirit — with events such as this aimed at putting Mortlach on the map as a hub for rural hospitality and support for veterans.
For more information, or to book a booth, contact Terry Bittles directly at 639-538-3326.
