Culture Days returns to Scugog with expanded vision and mural marathon initiative

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: At the June 2nd meeting of Scugog Council, Ashar Mobeen, representing the Scugog Council for the Arts, delivered an enthusiastic presentation, outlining plans for the 2025 edition of Culture Days, a vibrant, free, cultural festival which has become a cornerstone of Scugog’s creative calendar.

“Culture Days is more than a weekend of events, it’s a year-round celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration,” Mr. Mobeen told councillors, presenting both statistics from the successful 2024 festival and exciting new highlights for the upcoming year.

Among the most anticipated additions to Culture Days 2025 is the Mural Marathon: Villages of Scugog, a four-day interactive public art event, scheduled for July 10th through 13th. Described as a “mural meets a walk-a-thon,” the initiative will see 120 community members help paint panels, designed by a local artist. Each mural will reflect the unique identity of Scugog’s ten villages, to be installed permanently on the west wall of 268 Queen Street in Port Perry.

“The Mural Marathon is a chance for residents to physically leave their mark on the community, while celebrating our shared heritage and creativity,” added Ashar. “It’s designed to be hands-on, inclusive, and impactful, both visually and socially.”

Mr. Mobeen shared impressive figures from 2024’s festival, noting over 5,300 attendees, with 3,500 visiting Palmer Park and four other “hub” locations during the festival, and another 1,800 visiting exhibits and programs post-event. Scugog’s dedication to culture has earned it the “Top Rural Community” title, from Ontario Culture Days, three years running.

As part of the presentation, Mr. Mobeen formally asked the Township for promotional support and a declaration, recognizing the Mural Marathon and Ontario Culture Days as an official celebration of the Township of Scugog.

Council members expressed strong interest and posed a number of questions, including clarifications around mural sizes, heritage approvals, and branding. Councillor David LeRoy inquired about the inclusion of the Township’s logos on promotional materials, to which Mr. Mobeen responded affirmatively, citing a strong desire to reflect municipal partnership.

Following the discussion, Council passed the following motion, moved by Councillor LeRoy and seconded by Councillor Janna Guido that “the Scugog Council for the Arts and the Mural

Marathon and Ontario Culture Days be recognized as an official Town of Scugog Celebration.”

Mayor Wilma Wotten praised the presentation and the long-standing efforts of Scugog Arts.

“This festival is a testament to how culture can connect people of all ages and backgrounds. I’m proud Scugog continues to be a leader in celebrating creativity,” said Mayor Wotten.

With Council’s support now secured, Culture Days 2025 is poised to be one of Scugog’s most dynamic and inclusive celebrations yet, bringing people together through art, expression, and a shared sense of place.