Clarington celebrates summer’s end at Mayor & Council BBQ

On Sunday, August 24, Orono Park welcomed over 500 Clarington residents for the first-ever Mayor & Council BBQ, giving the summer of 2025 a proper send-off at one of the community’s beloved rural spots.

“We want to make it easy for everyone in Clarington to get involved by creating relaxed opportunities to connect with your Council team. The bonus? Bringing people together with good food and lively celebrations is what makes getting involved fun and unforgettable for everyone,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster.

Under sunny skies, the Orono Park (also known as Buttercup Hollow Park) was a hub of summer play and community spirit. Families spent the afternoon enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch and fun activities, including inflatable bouncy castles, swimming in the outdoor pool, games, and a playful scavenger hunt that encouraged kids to explore the large park.

Newcastle Lions Club volunteers worked the grill. Sponsorships from Metro, Loblaws and Foodland, made the event possible. Thanks to the involvement of local groups like Marigold Hospice Care, Orono Crown Lands, Clarington firefighters, and Orono Library staff, residents could leave the event feeling more connected and informed about their community.

“What an awesome way for people to meet their Council, make special memories with their families, and get ready to welcome the fall,” said Mayor Foster.

Councillor Anderson, Mayor Foster, Councillor Elhajjeh, Councillor Zwart, Councillor Rang and Councillor Woo

Clarington Council members hanging out at the Mayor & Council Community BBQ in Orono Park.

The Mayor & Council BBQ grew out of the community conversations held as part of Clarington’s 2024-27 Strategic Plan. This event is one way Clarington is creating more opportunities for residents to connect with Council, share their ideas, and get involved in community life – both in formal meetings and informal gatherings.

As Council meetings resume this September, there are several ways to catch up with your Council team. You can write to council@clarington.net, come to a public meeting, or follow Clarington Connected on social media to find out what Council will be up to next.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Jennifer O’Meara
Policy and Communications Advisor
905-260-2844 or jomeara@clarington.net

A family with children enjoying ice cream in front to the ice cream truck.

Two girls wearing fire hats pose in front to a fire truck.

Clarington staff cook veggie burgers at the Mayor and Council BBQ.

Children play with stencils and sidewalk chalk.

A boy plays with large building blocks.