The resort village of Manitou Beach is attempting record for most people floating in the lake at one time this Saturday. (Gary Bergen/Watrous Manitou Marketing Group)

By Angie Rolheiser

The Big Float

Saskatchewan lake looking to break record for most people floating at one time

Jul 9, 2019 | 1:56 PM

The community of Manitou Beach will make a record attempt at most people floating in the Little Manitou Lake at one time as part of the resort village’s centennial celebrations.

This Saturday, people from all over the province are expected to take to the mineral water in Little Manitou Lake for the ‘big float.’

Manitou Beach Community Development Officer, Brendan Manz said this is a perfect way to celebrate the uniqueness of the lake.

“Everyone from around the province and beyond knows this is the lake that you can float in,” Manz said. “We thought why don’t we try to get as many people in here as possible.”

The Little Manitou Lake possesses heavy mineral qualities making it three times saltier than the ocean.

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The village is not necessarily looking to break a world record with this but Manz is hoping it might break the mould and spark interest for other lakes.

“This could create a benchmark for not only our lake but others potentially in Canada or at least in Saskatchewan,” Manz said. “You never know this may grow into something where someday we may be able to challenge for a world record.”

Registration for the event begins at 11 a.m., the float takes place at 2 p.m. which is mainly a photo opportunity.

“We don’t know how people are coming, maybe hundreds, maybe thousands so we will ask everyone to enter the water nicely and be kind kind and gentle to everybody as they get in,” Manz said.

There will be a couple of different vantage points for the photos taken from an above plane flying over the lake.

“This may be a chance to get some of those other folks who have never experienced floating in little Manitou Lake and to be part of somewhat of a historical event,” Manz said.

The centennial celebrations will continue throughout the summer with the third annual Maple Madness Chainsaw carving competition taking place in August.

On August 11, is the actual date of incorporation for Manitou Beach. There will be a picnic party that day with local dignitaries, and live entertainment.

Danceland is hosting a homecoming dance on July 20 as well.

Part of the centennial presented the opportunity for the village to receive grants through the Canadian Heritage Foundation which are helping to fund some artist projects.

A mural painted by local artist Michael Gaudet was installed on the community hall in the spring. The Manitou Reflections project which is a stainless-steel wall that will be installed on the beach is also in the works by three different Manitou artists.

“One thing people know us for beyond our lake, our spa, and Danceland is our artist community,” Manz said. “We have numerous very talented artists in out community and this is a chance for them to show off their talents and to have a legacy built up for 2019.”

A Christmas mingle on December 15 will put a wrap on the year of celebrations.

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angie.rolheiser@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser