Some of the citizens of Mount Albert decided they would like a public playground.  Money was collected to secure the land but the location of the park became a controversy, which could not be solved so the project was abandoned and the money was returned to the donours.

In 1924 the Women’s Institute decided they would try to secure land for the park, but were told that they could not own property so they persuaded the Town to buy land for a park.  They needed support from two thirds of the ratepayers in the village and met with much opposition.  Finally enough names were secured and the petition was taken to East Gwillimbury Council where it was passed on July 15th, 1924.  This allowed the village council to buy the land which is now the Mount Albert Community Park.

Volunteer labour helped to get the grounds in shape for the first Sports Day which was held June 3, 1925.  Crowds came for the procession of parade floats lead by the Mount Albert Band.  There were ball games, horseshoe pitching, races and other sports.  In the evening a Minstrel show of local talent took place at the Old Mill.  The community hall was built in 1937.

Still holding onto the traditions of the past, and adding some new elements the Committees of Volunteers since 1925 have worked hard to keep this tradition alive.  This celebration is a big part of Mount Albert’s history.  Over the years this Festival has evolved and for many is the symbolic start to our long anticipated summer season. This year will mark the 83rd year of this event.

One thing has not changed since 1925 - All of the funds raised during this event stay in our community.  Over the years we have used these funds for upkeep in our Community Park, assisted in the creation of “Family Place” within the hall, upgrading the washroom facilities, replace the kitchen in the hall, accessibility ramp, window covering, stage curtains, baseball bleachers, flag poles, etc.  Last year a large portion of the funds were used to install fencing along the school and park boundaries, for safety in both the park and school grounds.  This year one of the key areas we are targeting a portion of the funds is to run a permanent waterline within the park for an outdoor family skating rink, in the old basketball/tennis court area.  This past winter a pilot project was ran with help from the Mount Albert Fire Department and many volunteers.  With the proper funds we would like to make this a permanent feature in our Community to be enjoyed by many for years to come!